In a thrilling conclusion to the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024, Brazil etched their name in history by clinching their record-extending sixth title with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Argentina in the final.
The dramatic match in Tashkent saw the Seleção hold their nerve to reclaim the coveted crown after a 12-year wait, further solidifying their dominance in the futsal world.
A Battle of South American Giants
The grand finale was a historic encounter, marking the first time two South American teams faced off in a FIFA Futsal World Cup final. Brazil, the most successful team in futsal history, came into the match with five previous titles, while Argentina, the 2016 champions, sought to double their tally.
Brazil drew first blood early in the match, with Ferrão putting the team ahead in the 6th minute. His goal came at a critical time, as many had doubted the decision to include him in the squad after an 18-month injury layoff. Yet, Ferrão defied expectations by delivering on the grandest stage. Minutes later, Rafael doubled Brazil’s lead, finishing off a well-worked team move in the 13th minute, sending Brazil into the halftime break with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
Argentina’s Brave Fightback
The second half saw Argentina intensify their efforts, launching wave after wave of attacks on Brazil’s goal. Argentina’s persistence paid off when Matías Rosa pulled one back in the 38th minute, setting up a tense finish. With the clock ticking down, Brazil had to withstand relentless pressure, but their defense, which had only conceded six goals throughout the tournament, held firm. The final whistle confirmed Brazil’s triumph, consigning Argentina to their second consecutive final defeat.
Brazil’s Best Defensive Performance
Brazil’s campaign in Uzbekistan was not just about attacking brilliance but also a testament to their resolute defense. The Seleção won all seven of their matches, conceding just six goals – their best-ever defensive performance in World Cup history. Marquinhos Xavier, Brazil’s head coach, made some bold calls throughout the tournament, including choosing goalkeeper Willian over the experienced Guitta. Willian’s performances were nothing short of miraculous, especially in the final, earning him the adidas Golden Glove award for the tournament’s best goalkeeper.
Speaking after the victory, a visibly emotional Willian said, “I haven’t stopped crying. The emotions are indescribable. The tiredness and emotional stress of this long journey were very high. Our three pivots were injured. To win the World Cup despite all of that is a spectacular achievement.”
Dyego and Marlon Shine
Brazil’s victory was also highlighted by standout performances from Dyego and Marlon. Dyego, wearing the No. 7 shirt, was awarded the Golden Ball for being the tournament’s best player, while Marlon claimed the Silver Ball. Their contributions were vital throughout the tournament, with Marcel, another key player, securing the Golden Boot as the top scorer. Brazil’s all-around excellence on the court was evident, and their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most proved decisive.
Argentina’s Gallant Effort
Despite the heartbreak of defeat, Argentina’s players gave everything in the final. Goalkeeper Nico Sarmiento reflected on the team’s effort, saying, “I think we gave everything we had, we did everything in our power in sporting terms, and unfortunately the ball didn’t go in. We have nothing to blame ourselves for and we are simply proud to be in the final for the third time in a row.”
While Argentina fell short in their pursuit of a second title, their consistency in recent years has been remarkable, reaching their third consecutive World Cup final and losing just two of their last 21 matches in the competition.
A Tournament of Firsts
The 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan was notable for many reasons beyond the dramatic final. It was the first time the tournament was hosted in Central Asia, with matches played across Tashkent, Andijan, and Bukhara. More than 150,000 fans attended the games, a testament to the growing popularity of futsal worldwide.
This edition of the tournament also saw several nations make their debut on the global futsal stage. New Zealand, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and France all participated in the FIFA Futsal World Cup for the first time, with Ukraine securing their best-ever finish by claiming third place after a dominant 7-1 victory over France in the bronze medal match.
Futsal’s Global Appeal
The tournament featured 24 teams from six confederations, with matches broadcast or streamed live in over 175 territories, underscoring the sport’s expanding reach. As futsal continues to grow in popularity, the 2024 edition further demonstrated its global appeal and the passion it inspires in fans across the world.
Brazil’s victory not only extends their legacy as futsal’s most decorated team but also reignites their pursuit of further glory. As the curtain closes on another thrilling World Cup, the futsal world turns its attention to the future, where Brazil will once again be the team to beat.
Awards and Recognitions
Brazil’s dominance in Uzbekistan was reflected in the individual awards. Dyego claimed the Golden Ball, Marlon took home the Silver Ball, and Marcel was awarded the Golden Boot.
Ukraine’s Semenchenko Rostyslav received the Bronze Ball, while Argentina’s Kevin Arrieta secured the Bronze Boot. Willian’s heroics between the posts earned him the prestigious Golden Glove award, and Portugal was honored with the FIFA Fair Play Trophy for their sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
Brazil’s sixth World Cup title is not just a victory for the nation but a milestone in the ever-evolving landscape of futsal, as the sport continues to capture hearts around the globe.
Who has won the most Futsal World Cups?
Six
