Brazil extends football 5 unbeaten streak

Brazil extended their astonishing football 5-a-side winning streak at the 5th International Blind Football Challenge, held in Rio de Janeiro between 1-5 June, following a 3-0 win over Iran in the final.

The reigning world champions have won every major tournament since 2007 and look the strong favourites to maintain a 100 per cent record at the Paralympics this September in Rio.

Brazil defeated Iran 1-0, Japan 5-0 and Mexico 5-0 in the round-robin phase to advance into the semi-finals.

The hosts then beat Morocco, the second placed finishers from Group B, 2-0. The win meant they qualified for the final against Iran, who advanced thanks to a 1-0 win over World Championships silver medallists Argentina.

Brazil defeated the Asian champions 3-0 to claim the title without conceding any goal. Argentina picked up bronze following a 2-1 win over Morocco on penalties.

“We played a perfect game, our goalkeeper almost did not touch the ball and our offensive line was very strong,” said Brazilian coach Fabio Vasconcelos.

“This victory has shown us that we are on the right track to win a fourth Paralympic gold on home soil.”

Jefinho, who became the competition’s top scorer with five goals, said: “I am very happy for this individual award, but I am happier for contributing to the team’s success.”

“This competition was important to get ready for September’s Paralympic Games and to prove that we are physically and mentally prepared.”

For more information, visit the event website.

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Sport fans from around the world can now buy their Paralympic tickets for Rio 2016 from authorised ticket resellers (ATRs)

The IPC’s Global ATR is Jet Set Sports, and Rio 2016 tickets and packages can be purchased on the CoSport website.

Residents of Brazil can buy 2016 Paralympics tickets directly from the Rio 2016 website.