Preview: FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025

World Cup

A Historic First: Seychelles Hosts the World

From 1 to 11 May 2025, the tropical paradise of Seychelles will host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup (Seychelles 2025) for the very first time. Set against the idyllic backdrop of the Paradise Arena, this edition marks a historic milestone for the sport, the host nation, and Africa. With 16 teams from around the globe and the match schedule now confirmed, the stage is set for an unforgettable tournament filled with high stakes, fierce rivalries, and stunning athleticism on the sand.

The competition features a mix of seasoned giants, rising challengers, and bold newcomers. In this article, we delve into each group to briefly analyse team appearances, world rankings, and expectations.

Tournament Overview

Dates: May 1 – May 11, 2025
Location: Paradise Arena, Seychelles
Opening Match: Guatemala vs. Japan
Final: May 11, 2025

16 nations will compete across four groups (A–D) in the group stage, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals.

Group A: Rising Contenders & Host Debut

Teams: Seychelles, Belarus, Guatemala, Japan

Seychelles – Debut Appearance | Ranked #76
Making their first World Cup appearance, the hosts carry the hopes of the nation. Ranked 76th, they may benefit from home support and the beachside environment.
Belarus – 3 Appearances | Ranked #5
A well-drilled team known for defensive solidity and physical play. One of the favourites to top the group.
Guatemala – Debut Appearance | Ranked #50
Full of potential, Guatemala enters as a wildcard and could surprise if underestimated.
Japan – 12 Appearances | Ranked #10
Technically gifted with tactical discipline, Japan is expected to be a top contender.

Expectations: Belarus and Japan are tipped to progress, but debutants Seychelles and Guatemala could provide upsets, especially with the home crowd behind the hosts.

Group B: Gritty Debutant & Tactical Powerhouses

Teams: Mauritania, IR Iran, Portugal, Paraguay

Mauritania – Debut Appearance | Ranked #34
The West African nation is participating for the first time and enters a very competitive group.
IR Iran – 8 Appearances | Ranked #7
Known for flair and aggression, Iran is a top Asian powerhouse and a real threat.
Portugal – 11 Appearances | Ranked #3
One of the biggest names in beach soccer, Portugal will look to assert dominance early.
Paraguay – 5 Appearances | Ranked #12
A gritty and resilient team, Paraguay has proven itself on the global stage.

Expectations: Portugal is the group favourite. Iran and Paraguay are closely matched, making for a tight race for the second spot. Mauritania will aim to learn and possibly disrupt.

Group C: Champions’ Row

Teams: Spain, Senegal, Chile, Tahiti

Spain – 9 Appearances | Ranked #4
A perennial contender with flair and tactical nous, Spain aims to dominate the group.
Senegal – 9 Appearances | Ranked #8
The African champions bring athleticism, strength, and a strong competitive spirit.
Chile – Debut Appearance | Ranked #42
Entering their first tournament, Chile has everything to prove and little to lose.
Tahiti – 7 Appearances | Ranked #11
Finalists in past editions, Tahiti is always a wildcard capable of spectacular performances.

Expectations: Group C is among the most balanced. Spain may edge it, but Senegal and Tahiti are highly capable. Chile will aim to learn fast and possibly shake things up.

Group D: Clash of the Titans

Teams: Brazil, El Salvador, Italy, Oman

Brazil – 12 Appearances | Ranked #1
The undisputed kings of beach soccer. Brazil enters as the overwhelming favorite to win it all.
Italy – 9 Appearances | Ranked #2
Consistent finalists, Italy will be looking to go one better after recent heartbreaks.
El Salvador – 5 Appearances | Ranked #16
Tough and resilient, El Salvador thrives in high-pressure matches.
Oman – 5 Appearances | Ranked #18
With tactical discipline and experience, Oman is capable of surprises.

Expectations: This is the tournament’s “Group of Death.” Brazil and Italy lead on paper, but El Salvador and Oman have the tools to create chaos. Expect high drama.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Tournament

The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025 promises a mix of debut stories, traditional powerhouses, and thrilling beach soccer action under the sun. With the world’s top 20 teams present, including giants like Brazil, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, the level of competition will be at its peak.