Afghanistan lose futsal final 6-0 to Brazil, finish runners-up

Brazil's national futsal team beat Afghanistan 6-0 in the final of a six-nation tournament on Sunday to win the title. The match was played in São José dos Pinhais, in Brazil's Paraná state.

According to media reports, Brazil scored early and led 1-0 at half-time, with Afghan goalkeeper Jawad Safari making several important saves. In the second half Abbas Haidari was sent off in the 16th minute, and Brazil scored their second goal while Afghanistan were a player down. Brazil added a third six minutes from the end and then scored three more. Sayed Morteza Hosseini was later also shown a red card.

Media reported that Fabinho scored twice, with Leandro Lino, Cléber, Serginho and Rufino also on target. Brazil have now won all three editions of the tournament.

On their way to the final, Afghanistan beat Peru 3-0, drew with Japan and beat Cape Verde 4-2 in the semi-final. Media reports noted that Brazil are ranked first in the world in futsal and Afghanistan 22nd. Japan finished third.

Media reports said a number of Afghans living in Brazil came to the arena to support the team, while the Afghanistan Football Federation organised a live screening of the match for fans at its premises.