In a clash of international futsal powerhouses, Brazil showcased why it is considered the best team in the world, dismantling Italy 6-1 to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
Amandinha led Brazil’s dominant display, scoring twice in the 22nd minute to effectively seal the victory over Italy.
The 31-year-old’s brace followed first-half goals from Ana Luiza and Emilly in the 1st and 12th minutes, respectively. Brazil then extended its lead with late goals from Deborah Vanin and Camilla in the 27th and 28th minutes.
Italy’s lone goal came from Renata Adamatti in the 7th minute, but it was insufficient to threaten Brazil’s commanding performance.
“What we ask most of the girls is to control the game. With the ball and without the ball, and today they were excellent,” said Brazil coach Wilson Saboia. “Technically, it went very well. We won the individual duels. It is essential for us to get close to the area.”
Earlier, Iran defeated Panama 6-2 in the tournament’s opening match to revive its hopes of reaching the knockout round.
(C) FIFA
Iran, which suffered a 4-1 defeat to Brazil last Sunday, raced to a three-goal lead early against Panama.
Elham Anafjeh opened the scoring just two minutes into the match, setting the stage for Nasimeh Gholami and Fereshteh Karimi to strike in the 9th and 12th minutes.
The second half saw Iran continue its dominance, adding three more goals.
Fereshteh Khosravi scored in the 29th minute for Iran’s fourth, followed by Karimi’s long-range effort in the 37th minute. An unfortunate own goal from Mayorie Perez shortly after Iran completed’s rout.
Panama managed two consolation goals from Kenia Rangel and Perez in the 18th and 36th minutes, respectively, but they remain out of contention for the knockout stage.
“The people of Iran are happy for their first victory in the World Cup,” said Iran coach Shahrzad Mozafar. “It was not as easy as expected. Although we had many scoring opportunities, I think we missed many attempts at a goal.”
Brazil leads Group D with six points, followed by Italy and Iran with three points each.
Italy occupies second place due to a superior goal difference (+12) compared to Iran (+1). Panama is at the bottom of the group and out of the running for the knockouts.
Group D concludes this Saturday at the same venue, with Italy facing Iran at 5:00 PM and Brazil taking on Panama at 7:30 PM.
