Ones to watch: 3 Teams That Could Make Waves at the Beach Soccer World Cup

With the Beach Soccer World Cup just around the corner, let's take a look at some potential winners and wildcards!

This competition will take place on the 1st of May in Seychelles, a country blessed with majestic beaches in the east of Africa.

This brings me to the first team that should not be underestimated!

1)    Seychelles

Not only are they hosting the tournament this will also be their Beach Soccer World Cup debut, which is a huge moment for the country with a population of only 120,000 people.

They are in a tough group alongside Belarus, Guatemala and Japan. Despite not having as much experience as other countries in their group and the competition as a whole, people should not overlook them.

With the home support and passion, anything can happen, and Seychelles certainly believe this with player Dominic Bouchereau, stating: “We’re satisfied with our group, but there’s still work to be done. We want to put on a show for the people of the Seychelles”.

Credit: Seychelles Nation

2)    Brazil

It goes without saying in the Beach Soccer sphere that Brazil are likely to be a contender for the whole competition. Their history speaks for itself, having won the World Cup six times since its creation in 2005.

Their victory last year will only motivate them more than ever to retain this title and be crowned as champions once again. Not only the creators of the sport, but also the champions of it. Placed in a tough group with El Salvador, Italy and Oman, it won’t be a walk in the park for the title holders.

Player Catarino addressed this, stating: “We’re really motivated. Our feet are on the ground. We won’t have an easy game. Every game will be a final decided by small details. Whoever takes their chances will win.”

Credit: Beach Soccer Worldwide

3)    Japan

Being one of the strongest teams to come out of Asia, there is no doubt Japan will be ready for the challenges ahead and pushing for a shock victory. The closest they have come to winning the competition was in 2021, when they were narrowly defeated by Russia in the final.

Last year proved tougher for them when they were knocked out in the quarter finals, but this year they will be looking to right all their wrongs and finally get their hands on the silverware.

Despite their form in the World Cup tournament not being the best, they have been successful in other tournaments such as the AFC Beach Soccer Asian Cup, where they won this competition twice in 2009 and 2011.

They will be looking to take this winning formula into the World Cup, with coach Teruki Tabata believing they can, stating: With a new team, a new style and renewed determination, we will take on this challenge. Our goal is, of course, to rule the world. While staying true to our identity as ‘Team Japan’, we aim to inspire and move those watching with our performances, treasuring each and every match.”

Credit: JFA

With the excitement building up for this amazing tournament, these are my thoughts on who I believe can shine. Will there be an unexpected shock winner or a clear sailing champion? We will certainly find out soon!