Japan vs Belarus – FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025 Match Analysis

Yauheni Novikau starred with a stunning hat-trick as Belarus made it two wins from two at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™, overpowering Japan 6-3 in an action-packed encounter.

Japan goals: Masato Suzuki, Takaaki Oba, Ozu Moreira

Belarus goals: Yauheni Novikau (3), Aleh Hapon, Vadzim Bokach, Artsemi Drozd

Player of the Match: Yauheni Novikau

The opening period was tight and fast-paced, with few clear chances until Novikau broke the deadlock with a well-placed header. Japan responded swiftly through Masato Suzuki, who converted from a corner to level the score.

But Belarus regained control as Novikau fired in his second with a composed left-footed finish, before Aleh Hapon dazzled with a spectacular bicycle kick to extend the lead. Novikau then completed his hat-trick, stabbing in from the left to punish Japan’s defensive lapse.

Japan fought back through Takaaki Oba, whose acrobatic scissor kick narrowed the gap. However, Belarus quickly restored their cushion when Vadzim Bokach smashed home a penalty. Ozu Moreira added another for Japan with a powerful right-footed strike, but any hopes of a comeback were dashed when Artsemi Drozd sealed the win with a stunning bicycle kick.

With this result, Belarus continues their perfect start, while Japan will need to regroup ahead of their next match.