Dubai: Portugal captain and former World Player of the Year Joao Victor Saraiva, known as Madjer, has called on UAE residents to attend a ‘veritable final’ between the two world champions on the second day of the Seventh Huawei Beach Soccer Intercontinental Cup, being played at the Marasi Business Bay.
Madjer, who has been a regular in the UAE playing for Shabab Al Ahli Dubai in the local beach soccer league, scored the match-winner in Tuesday’s opener against the UAE. With the two teams tied 4-4 and time running out, it was Madjer, who converted a free kick to give Portugal the lead. Teammate Jordan Santos came in late to add another and put the match out of reach for the hosts.
Portugal next face reigning world champions Brazil in today’s second Group A match to be played at 5.30pm. “Beach soccer is beautiful, but beach soccer with fans is even more beautiful and entertaining. I would love to see the stands full with people,” Madjer told media after the match.
“All matches between Brazil and Portugal are always intense and it would be a shame if there are fans missing out on such a game,” he added.
Brazil have been leading the overall world rankings with 4,263 points followed by Portugal in second (3,185) and Asian giants Iran (3,011). “These are the two best teams in the world, who know each other’s games so well. So it is not going to be easy for sure. Both teams need to concentrate and stay focused throughout the match, and even a small mistake can result in a goal,” Madjer cautioned.
