FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, Seychelles 2025: Tough groups for African trio

Hosts Seychelles, powerhouse Senegal and debutants Mauritania will all compete in the tournament that will be staged on the African continent for the first time from 1-11 May.

Seychelles is placed in Group A alongside Belarus, debutants Guatemala, and Japan, which, along with Brazil, is one of the only nations to have participated in all 13 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cups.

Mauritania has been drawn in Group B, where they will compete against Iran, two-time champions Portugal, and Paraguay, creating a challenging group.

Senegal, the reigning African champions, have been placed in Group C alongside Spain, Chile, and Tahiti, who have reached the finals twice.

Group D features the defending champions Brazil and last year's finalists Italy in a highly anticipated rematch, alongside El Salvador and Oman.

The leading two teams from each group will progress to the quarter-finals.

A vibrant draw ceremony took place in Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, featuring a musical performance of "Bom Sé Sé," the official anthem of the competition, by renowned local artist Elijah Seychelles alongside singer Taniah.

Mauritania coach Moussa Baghayogho savoured the moment: "I was so proud to see the Mauritanian flag flying among the greatest nations in our sport. It's an indescribable feeling."

A moment full of emotion before diving into the heart of the matter: Mauritania has been placed in a challenging group. While this presents a significant obstacle, the Mauritanian coach is determined not to view it as impossible.

"On paper, we are the minnows, but that doesn't mean anything to us. Now that we know our opponents, we will prepare to deliver the best possible performances and make our country and our continent proud."

For its part, Senegal, which will play its 10th FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, has gathered for a training camp in Dakar and followed the draw closely. 

Their emblematic captain, Al Seyni Ndiaye, is unequivocally confident: "We have a strong group, but Senegal fears no one. We will play every game with determination to prove that we are a world-class team. Our objective is clear: to finish at the top of this group."

In Spain, Tahiti and Chile, there are three new opponents for the Senegalese goalkeeper, despite the fact he is appearing at an impressive ninth global finals.

"With my nine participations in the World Cup, it's the first time I'm going to face these teams. Spain and Tahiti are references in beach soccer, while Chile is a novice on the world stage. But if they are here, it is because they have earned their place."

The Senegalese ambition, the determination of the Seychelles, and the enthusiasm of the Mauritanians present a diverse array of perspectives as the African representatives prepare for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. However, they share a common goal: to showcase the brilliance of their continent on the sands of Seychelles.

GROUPS OF FIFA BEACH SOCCER WORLD CUP, SEYCHELLES 2025

Group A: Seychelles, Belarus, Guatemala, Japan

Group B: Mauritania, IR Iran, Portugal, Paraguay

Group C: Spain, Senegal, Chile, Tahiti

Group D: Brazil, El Salvador, Italy, Oman

Cover Credits - Beach Soccer Worldwide