With the group stage of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025™ complete, the tournament is crackling with energy as we head into the knockout rounds. The group-stage games brought a blend of attacking brilliance, defensive collapses, and heart-stopping finishes across all four groups.
Tournament Stats So Far
- Total Goals: 230
- Shots on Target: 772
- Overhead Kicks Attempted: 429
- Goals from Overhead Kicks: 34
From stunning volleys to acrobatic finishes, the group stage delivered relentless action, with 230 goals scored in just 24 matches—an average of nearly 10 goals per game. Among them, 34 were scored via overhead kicks, a testament to the flair and spectacle that define beach soccer, with 429 such attempts thrilling crowds throughout.
The goalkeepers have certainly been busy too, facing 772 on-target efforts so far.
Group Stage Overview
Group A:
Belarus emerged as one of the tournament’s most formidable sides, sweeping all three games with an astonishing +15 goal difference. Japan followed closely behind, recovering from a defeat to Belarus with emphatic wins over Guatemala (10–2) and hosts Seychelles. Guatemala and Seychelles are out, with both teams conceding 12 goals each.
- Standout Player: Anatoliy Ryabko (Belarus) – orchestrated Belarus’ attack with five goals.
Group B:
Portugal were the entertainers of the group stage, scoring a tournament-high 26 goals. Their thrilling 11–9 win over Paraguay was a fan favourite. IR Iran matched them in points but narrowly lost 5–7 in the final match, settling for second. Paraguay and Mauritania fell short, despite flashes of promise.
- Most Memorable Match: Portugal 11–9 Paraguay – a goal fest that will be replayed for years.
Group C:
Senegal marched through as group leaders with three wins, including a stunning 4–1 win over world no. 4; Spain. However, Spain bounced back to seal second place after dispatching Chile and Tahiti. Chile and Tahiti gave a good fight but couldn’t turn performances into points.
- Breakout Star: Mamadou Sylla (Senegal) – a force on both ends of the sand.
Group D:
Brazil and Italy progressed comfortably, but Brazil’s emphatic 11–1 thrashing of Oman underlined their title credentials. El Salvador and Oman couldn’t withstand the elite pressure, despite Oman’s penalty win over El Salvador in a tense shootout.
- Shock Scoreline: Brazil 11–1 Oman – one of the biggest margin of victory in the group stages.
Top Goalscorers After the Group Stage
- Cheikh Belkheir (Mauritania) – 7 goals
- Andre Lourenco (Portugal) – 6 goals
- Tied on 5 goals:
- Takuya Akaguma (Japan)
- Ihar Bryshtsel (Belarus)
- Miguel Gonzalez (Guatemala)
- Be Martins (Portugal)
- Miguel Pintado (Portugal)
- Anatoliy Ryabko (Belarus)
While Mauritania failed to progress, Belkheir’s seven-goal haul makes him the tournament’s surprise individual standout. Portugal’s offensive firepower is evident with three players among the top scorers, reflecting their aggressive style.
⚔️ Knockout Stage: Quarter-Finals Preview
- Belarus vs IR Iran
A clash between tactical discipline and explosive flair. Belarus are yet to be truly tested—this will be their first real challenge. - Portugal vs Japan
Portugal are favourites, but Japan’s attacking variety means an upset is possible if they start strong. - Senegal vs Italy
Perhaps the most balanced tie. Senegal’s pace and finishing will face Italy’s technical organization. - Brazil vs Spain
A mouthwatering classic. Spain’s organized setup must withstand Brazil’s relentless offence.
Shock Exits and Underdog Stories
- Disappointment: Host nation Seychelles – zero wins, but their spirited and courageous performances earned the respect of fans.
- Shock Exit: Paraguay – widely expected to advance, but crumbled under pressure.
- Biggest Underdog Story: Japan – quietly consistent and has a shot at the semifinals.
Predictions: Who Goes All the Way?
- Favourites: Brazil and Portugal – the former are clinical, the latter are chaotic but effective.
- Dark Horses: Senegal and Japan – both capable of delivering tournament-defining performances.
- Golden Boot Watch: likely Andre Lourenco (Portugal) is a strong contender, already topping the scoring charts.
Photo: FIFA
Visit the FIFA.com, and Beach Soccer Worldwide websites for more on the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025.
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