Courtesy: Xinhua


Italy beat Russia for third place in Futsal World Cup

19/10/2008

RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- After having lost a frustrating game in the semifinals, the Italy made up entirely of Brazilians won third place after beating Russia 2-1 here in the Futsal World Cup on Saturday.

The Italians scored the second goal and secured their victory with only 13 seconds left in the game, shocking the Russians.

Italy's Foglia was the first to score in the 6th minute. Russia responded just before the first half coming to an end.

In the 19th minute, Dushkevic took advantage of a loose ball and fired into the Italian net, tying the game. The score continued the same until the last seconds of the game.

Assis was the savior for the Italians when he eluded the defense of Zuev and fired the ball past the Russian goalkeeper to give victory and the bronze medal to his team.

The Italian team is composed entirely of Brazilians. The only Italy-born member of the team is the head coach.

Brazil will play Spain in the final of the tournament, which will be held Sunday afternoon. Immediately after the game, the MVP of this year's event will be named.

Brazil has four different chances of having one of their players named as the most valuable: Falcao, Lenisio, Schumacher and Tiago.




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