The race to the FIFA Futsal World Cup is heating up as the elite round of qualifiers nears its conclusion. With matches played in October and the final two matchdays set for 14 to 20 December, the competition is fierce.
Highlights:
- Italy’s Fabricio Calderolli was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick, including a last-minute winner, to secure a 6-5 victory over Czechia.
- The elite round will determine five of the seven European qualifiers for the 2024 World Cup finals in Uzbekistan. The top team from each group will directly qualify, while the best four runners-up will compete in the elite round play-offs.
- Kazakhstan showcased their dominance in Group A, maintaining a 100% record with victories over Azerbaijan. Meanwhile, Romania managed to edge past the Netherlands.
- Group B saw Poland rise to the top after impressive wins against Belgium. Serbia, previously unbeaten, faced a setback against Ukraine.
- In Group C, France took the lead, ending Croatia’s perfect start. Slovakia and Germany exchanged victories in their encounters.
- Spain, two-time World Cup champions, faced a minor hiccup against Slovenia but bounced back strongly. Italy’s thrilling match against Czechia ended in a 6-5 victory, with a last-minute goal making the difference.
- Reigning World and European champions, Portugal, continued their unbeaten run in Group E, overcoming Armenia in two high-scoring matches.
Upcoming Fixtures:
The next set of matches promises more thrilling action, with teams battling for the top spots and a chance to qualify for the World Cup finals.
Insights:
- Emerging Powers: Nations like Kazakhstan and Poland are showcasing their growth in the sport, challenging traditional powerhouses.
- Last-minute Dramas: Several matches, like Italy vs. Czechia, were decided in the dying moments, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement of futsal.
- Road to Uzbekistan: With the 2024 World Cup finals in Uzbekistan on the horizon, teams are giving it their all to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.
Results & Standings
Group A Matches:
- Kazakhstan vs Azerbaijan: 3-2 (11 October)
- Netherlands vs Romania: 1-1 (10 October)
- Azerbaijan vs Kazakhstan: 2-4 (6 October)
- Romania vs Netherlands: 2-1 (6 October)
Group A Standings:
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Kazakhstan | 12 | 6 |
| Romania | 7 | 2 |
| Netherlands | 3 | 0 |
| Azerbaijan | 1 | -8 |
Group B Matches:
- Belgium vs Poland: 1-3 (11 October)
- Ukraine vs Serbia: 1-1 (11 October)
- Serbia vs Ukraine: 1-6 (6 October)
- Poland vs Belgium: 7-2 (6 October)
Group B Standings:
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Poland | 9 | 7 |
| Ukraine | 7 | 12 |
| Serbia | 5 | -4 |
| Belgium | 1 | -15 |
Group C Matches:
- Croatia vs France: 1-2 (10 October)
- Slovakia vs Germany: 4-3 (9 October)
- France vs Croatia: 5-2 (5 October)
- Germany vs Slovakia: 4-3 (5 October)
Group C Standings:
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| France | 10 | 8 |
| Croatia | 6 | 4 |
| Slovakia | 4 | -4 |
| Germany | 3 | -8 |
Group D Matches:
- Czechia vs Italy: 3-3 (11 October)
- Spain vs Slovenia: 4-0 (10 October)
- Slovenia vs Spain: 1-1 (6 October)
- Italy vs Czechia: 6-5 (6 October)
Group D Standings:
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | 10 | 8 |
| Italy | 7 | 2 |
| Slovenia | 4 | -5 |
| Czechia | 1 | -5 |
Group E Matches:
- Portugal vs Armenia: 7-1 (11 October)
- Finland vs Georgia: 3-3 (11 October)
- Georgia vs Finland: 5-2 (7 October)
- Armenia vs Portugal: 5-6 (6 October)
Group E Standings:
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Portugal | 12 | 16 |
| Georgia | 7 | -1 |
| Finland | 4 | -2 |
| Armenia | 0 | -13 |
