Courtesy: Xinhua


Azerbaijan, Ukraine through to Euro Futsal knockout stages

22/1/2010

BUDAPEST, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Azerbaijan and Ukraine secured passage to the quarterfinal stages of the UEFA European Futsal Championship on Thursday.

Having clinically beaten tournament hosts Hungary 3-1 on Tuesday, Azerbaijan eclipsed the Czech Republic 6-1 in Budapest on Thursday.

The result ensures the men from the Caucasus top Group A whatever the outcome of the final match on Saturday between Hungary and the Czech Republic.

The Azeris, powered by several naturalized Brazilians as well as a Brazilian coach, brushed aside a disappointing Czech challenge.

Up 3-0 after 10 minutes, Azerbaijan added another three goals in the second-half. Biro Jade and Vitaliy Borisov impressed most, each bagging two goals.

A quarterfinal tie in Budapest against the runners-up of Group B (either Ukraine or Italy) awaits the impressive Azeris, while the Czechs must beat Hungary on Saturday in their second and final group game to qualify for the quarterfinals.

Ukraine's debut game in this year's championship, which took place in Debrecen, resulted in a confident 4-2 demolition of Belgium.

Three-to-one up at half-time, the Ukrainians looked set to overtake group rivals Italy on goal difference at the top of Group B.

Ukraine could only add one more goal in the second-half however, while Belgium, who are now eliminated from the tournament, pegged a goal back right on the final whistle.

Ukraine now must beat Italy in the final Group B game to avoid Group A winners Azerbaijan in the quarterfinals.



Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com