Goalball gold for Brazil and Russia in Malmo

Rio 2016 men’s goalball bronze medallists Brazil won the men's competition at the annual Malmo Lady and Men Intercup in Sweden, while the Russian* team took the women's, on 2 April.

Competitions were held at the Baltiska Sports Hall, the main venue for the International Blind Sports Association (IBSA) Goalball World Championships, set to take place between 3 and 6 June.

In the men’s event, Brazil defeated Germany 12-2 in the final, with Belgium taking bronze following a 9-2 victory over the USA. The 2016 Paralympics hosts are looking to defend the world title in two months after emerging triumphant at Espoo 2014.

The women's final was a far tighter affair, with Russia pipping Turkey 7-6. USA claimed bronze after beating Brazil 3-2. Russia seek to take revenge after losing the 2014 Worlds final to the USA. Paralympic champions Turkey will be another leading contender for gold.

More information about the World Championships can be found on the official website.

*Editor's note: The International Paralympic Committee suspended the Russian Paralympic Committee on 7 August 2016 for its inability to fulfil its IPC membership responsibilities and obligations, in particular its obligation to comply with the IPC Anti-Doping Code and the World Anti-Doping Code (to which it is also a signatory). As a result of the suspension, Russian athletes cannot enter IPC sanctioned events or competitions, including the Paralympic Games.

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