World Cup

Semi-final Preview

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February 24, 2024

IR Iran, Brazil, Italy, and Belarus face off in a crucial contest, each vying for the opportunity to compete for the prestigious world title.

Semifinal 1: IR Iran vs. Brazil

Suspensions: IR Iran’s Mohammad Moradi will sit out the match due to accumulating his second caution of the tournament. However, both teams will start with a clean disciplinary slate as bookings have been wiped.

Players to Watch:

IR Iran: The dynamic goalkeeping duo of Hamid Behzadpour and Seyed Mirjalili will be crucial in fortifying Iran’s defense and thwarting Brazil’s attacks. Additionally, Mohammadali Mokhtari’s lethal finishing abilities make him a key threat upfront.
Brazil: Renowned for their attacking prowess, Mauricinho and Rodrigo are expected to lead Brazil’s charge. Mauricinho’s uncanny ability to decipher defensive setups, coupled with Rodrigo’s exceptional goal-scoring record, poses a significant threat to Iran’s defense.

Quotes:

Seyed Mirjalili recognises the exceptional skill and endurance displayed by Brazilian players, he underscores Brazil’s profound historical connection to the sport, acknowledging their significant influence in shaping its evolution.

“Bobo is good, I respect Bobo. Bobo plays three periods non-stop. It’s impressive. Brazilian players know how to play this game. The sport was made in Brazil.”
Seyed Mirjalili, Iran goalkeeper

Catarino, representing Brazil, recognizes Iran’s evolution as a dominant force in beach soccer. He acknowledges Iran’s cohesive team play and their status as one of the strongest national teams in the sport.

Iran has grown so much in recent years. They are a national team whose players have played together for years. They are one of the strongest national teams on the beach soccer scene.”
Catarino, Brazil player

Head-to-Head Records: The teams’ last meeting, which coincidentally took place in Dubai in November 2022, saw Iran emerge victorious with a stunning 2-1 win in the Intercontinental Cup final. This historic victory adds intrigue to their upcoming clash.

Analysis: With IR Iran boasting a solid defensive foundation and Brazil known for their attacking flair, the match promises to be a captivating battle of contrasting styles. Iran’s defensive resilience will be tested against Brazil’s relentless offensive pressure.

Semifinal 2: Italy vs. Belarus

Suspensions: Neither Italy nor Belarus have any players suspended for the match. Both teams enter the semifinal clash with a clean disciplinary record.

Players to Watch:

Italy: Marco Giordani and Luca Bertacca have been instrumental in Italy’s attacking endeavours throughout the tournament. Giordani’s ability to turn the tide of matches with crucial goals, as evidenced by his brace against Tahiti, makes him a key figure to watch. Meanwhile, Bertacca’s consistent performances and goal-scoring threat provide Italy with attacking impetus.
Belarus: Ihar Bryshtsel has been the standout performer for Belarus, leading the goal-scoring charts with ten goals in just four games. His clinical finishing and ability to create scoring opportunities make him a formidable threat to Italy’s defence. Additionally, goalkeeper Mikhail Avgustov’s exceptional shot-stopping abilities have played a crucial role in Belarus’s journey to the semifinals.

Quotes:

Italy goalkeeper Leandro Casapieri expresses respect for Belarus, acknowledging the strength and quality of their opponent. Despite the confidence within the Italian camp, Casapieri emphasises the need for hard work and determination to secure victory in the semifinal clash.

Belarus are a great team, we respect them a lot. I’m confident, I have to be, because we worked hard. Let’s see how it ends.”
Leandro Casapieri, Italy goalkeeper

Head-to-Head Records: Italy and Belarus have a relatively recent history, with Italy emerging victorious in their last meeting during the 2023 Euro Beach Soccer League. Notably, this tournament marks Belarus’s first advancement beyond the group stage, adding significance to their semifinal encounter with Italy.

Analysis: Italy’s defensive solidity, having conceded only five goals thus far in the tournament, will be tested against Belarus’s potent attacking threat led by Bryshtsel. With Italy’s organised defence facing off against Belarus’s attacking flair, the match promises to be a captivating contest of contrasting styles. Expect an intriguing battle as both teams strive to secure a place in the final showdown of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.