Russia successfully defended its title in the 2013 Beach Soccer World Cup by defeating Spain 5-1 in the final. This victory marked Russia’s second consecutive title, with their first win coming in 2011. Despite Spain’s earlier victory over Brazil in the semi-finals, they couldn’t overcome Russia’s dominance in the final.
Anton Shkarin, Kirill Romanov, and Yury Krasheninnikov (double) scored for Russia within the first 30 minutes of play. While Llorenc managed to score and reduce the deficit for Spain, it turned out to be the only bright moment for the Spanish team. Dmitri Shishin sealed Russia’s victory with a fifth goal.
In the match for third place, the host country, Tahiti, gave a tough competition to the favored Brazilians, ending in a 7-7 draw at the conclusion of regulation time and overtime. Brazil secured victory in the penalty shootout.
Both African teams in the competition were eliminated after the first round. The next Beach Soccer World Cup is scheduled to take place in Portugal in 2015.
