Photographie: Felipe Echeverría - Santiago Barcacel
In an epic and emotional night, Colombia was crowned champions of the VIII FIFUSA Futsal World Cup 2024 by defeating their eternal rival, Brazil, with a final score of 2-1. This match, full of tension, adrenaline, and unforgettable moments, took place at the Bicentenario Coliseum in front of more than 5,000 fans who passionately cheered for the Colombian team with every play.
From the start, the duel between these two futsal powerhouses was a high-quality spectacle. Colombia, after defeating Venezuela 3-0 in the semifinals, and Brazil, who managed a close 3-2 win over Argentina, faced off to determine the new world champion. The pressure and passion could be felt in every corner of the coliseum.
First Half: Colombia Takes the Lead
The game began at a high pace, with both teams seeking to impose their style. However, an unexpected mistake changed the course of the match. At minute 13:12, a mistake by Brazilian goalkeeper Jhonatan Lima (#12) left the ball at the feet of Daniel Rojas (#13), who did not miss the opportunity and, with an empty net, scored the 1-0 for Colombia. The Bicentenario Coliseum erupted with joy as the Colombian crowd celebrated wildly.
Colombia maintained control of the ball and managed their lead intelligently, while Brazil struggled to break through the solid local defense. The first half ended with the Colombians ahead, and the fans on the verge of madness.
Second Half: Colombia Extends the Lead, Brazil Responds
The second half started with Colombia determined to seal the victory. At minute 2:13, another interception by Daniel Rojas (#13) caught the Brazilian defense off-guard. In a lethal counterattack, Rojas assisted Bryan Ángel (#9), who finished at the near post to increase the lead to 2-0. The coliseum roared with excitement, and the victory was getting closer for the hosts.
Brazil, wounded in their pride, did not give up. At minute 11:34, a foul in the Colombian area resulted in a penalty. Leonardo Dourado (#8) calmly converted, making it 2-1 and adding more suspense to the final stretch of the match.
Dramatic Finish: Colombia Holds On and Celebrates World Glory
The last minutes were nerve-wracking. Brazil threw everything forward in search of an equalizer, but the Colombian defense, led by goalkeeper Duván Mosquera (#1), withstood every attack with grit and determination. With the crowd on their feet and tension at its peak, the referee blew the final whistle, and Colombia was crowned world futsal champions.
This title represents not only the effort and sacrifice of the 12 warriors who fought on the field but also the dream of an entire nation that longed to see their team lift the trophy. Colombia, on home soil, defeated one of the greatest rivals in futsal history, Brazil, to inscribe their name at the pinnacle of world sports.
The victory will be forever remembered as one of Colombia's greatest sporting achievements. The World Cup dream became a reality in Bucaramanga!
Lineups of the Match:
Colombia (Coach: Tomás Gutiérrez)
-#1: Duván Mosquera (Goalkeeper)
-#7: Kewin Ariza
-#11: Daniel Bentancourt (Captain) (Yellow Cards X2) (Blue Card)
-#13: Daniel Rojas (Goal X1) (Assist X1)
-#9: Bryan Ángel (Goal X1)
Substitutes:
-#15: Josué Romero (Yellow Card)
-#14: Jorge Vargas
-#8: Juan Diego Viveros
-#6: Alexis Sánchez
-#12: Félix García
-#10: Carlos Colmenares
-#4: Miguel Arciniegas (Yellow Card)
Brazil (Coach: Edynson Punkanki)
-#12: Jhonatan Lima (Goalkeeper) (Captain)
-#8: Leonardo Dourado (Goal X1)
-#6: Rafael Meireles
-#9: Malier Cámara
-#4: Edair Luis Junior
Substitutes:
-#3: Sidney Gómez
-#5: Gabriel Techere
-#10: Wallier Silva
-#1: Vicente Brag
-#11: Jheferson De Oliveira
-#13: Matheus Dos Santos
FIFUSA PRESS