Argentina Crowned Futsal World Cup Champion
TEHRAN (Tasnim)- Argentina claimed the FIFA Futsal World Cup for the first time with a 5-4 defeat of Russia in Cali, Colombia on Saturday.
Eder Lima had put Russia ahead after 16 minutes but the lead lasted only a handful of seconds before Alamiro Vaporaki restored parity.
The game continued on a knife-edge until Blandi stepped up with two rapid strikes to put the Argentines 4-2 up and on the verge of glory.
Constantino Vaporaki added another late in the second half, but goals from Lima and Lyskov meant the Argentines were left nervously waiting for the full-time whistle before celebrations could begin.
Portugal was beaten 4-3 on penalties against Iran in the third-place play-off having seen a 2-0 lead wiped out in the 40 minutes.
Ricardinho of Portugal was top scorer on 12 goals, two ahead of Falcao, playing in his fifth and final World Cup for Brazil.
Argentina captain Wilhelm of Benfica was named best player.
World Cup roll of honor
2016: Argentina 5-4 Russia (hosts: Colombia)
2012: Brazil 3-2 aet Spain (Thailand)
2008: Brazil 2-2, 4-3 pens Spain (Brazil)
2004: Spain 2-1 Italy (Chinese Taipei)
2000: Spain 4-3 Brazil (Guatemala)
1996: Brazil 6-4 Spain (Spain)
1992: Brazil 4-1 United States (Hong Kong)
1989: Brazil 2-1 Netherlands (Netherlands)
