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Portugal got preparation for the defence of their FIFA Futsal World Cup™ crown up and running in style with a 4-1 victory over Uzbekistan in Rio Maior. Jorge Braz’s charges won their first global title at Lithuania 2021, and will kick off their Uzbekistan 2024 campaign against Panama in Tashkent on 16 September.

Bruno Coelho netted twice for Portugal, while Afonso Jesus, Erick Mendonca and Pany Varela were all outstanding. The star of the show, however, was 21-year-old sensation Kutchy, whose magic was unfathomable to Uzbekistan.

A fortuitous Botirov own-goal put Portugal ahead, only for Ilydar Akhmetzyanov to equalise following a defensive mix-up. Pany, who has just become ‘The Cristiano of the Court’ by joining Saudi outfit Al-Nassr, threatened with two bullets from distance, before Zicky went close with a flick following some glorious trickery from Kutchy. Pany then enabled Tiago Brito to finally restore the lead just before the interval.

Pany almost made it 3-1 after a dazzling dribble, while Andre Correia made two fine saves to protect Portugal’s advantage. Kutchy then illuminated the Polidesportivo Pavilion with an outrageous piece on skill on the right wing. The scoreline was made more fitting by two excellent late strikes by Bruno Coelho.

Portugal’s remarkable will to win was central to them conquering the sport three years ago. They went to extra-time in their first three knockout-phase games, coming from two goals down to sink two-time champions Spain and overcoming Kazakhstan on penalties. Pany bagged a brace as they edged Argentina 2-1 in the final.

Portugal also won the last two UEFA Futsal EUROs and the first Futsal Finalissima in 2022.

They will play Panama, Tajikistan and Morocco, who are sixth on the FIFA Futsal Men’s World Ranking, in a very tough Group E at Uzbekistan 2024.