Kostenko: In the selection for the 2025 Beach Soccer World Cup, we were counting on a different result

Head coach Ukrainian national beach soccer team Nikolay Kostenko commented on the results of the performance in the qualification for World Cup 2025.

“Of course, we expected a different result. For various reasons, the team approached this important tournament in not optimal condition. Six players from the main squad were unable to participate in the competition. However, the newcomers to the national team have proven themselves well, as evidenced by the matches with the Norwegians. Unfortunately, there was not enough experience with the more powerful Polish team, but the game with France was equal. Only an unfortunate mistake at the end of the meeting did not give the team a chance to advance further.”

“I would like to note that the tournament was very interesting and unpredictable in its results. No one could have predicted Italy’s victory in the decisive match for qualifying for the World Cup over Switzerland (12:0). Despite the fact that Switzerland had almost the optimal composition, with the exception of Ott. France lost to the Spaniards, who were considered favorites, only in a penalty shootout. And the Danish team gave battle to experienced Italy and won in extra time.”

“In general, beach soccer is developing dynamically. The Danish national team has been demonstrating a high level of play for several years now and is constantly improving. The Estonian team looked very organized. And I would like to thank them once again for refusing to play against Belarus. The national teams of Italy and Poland demonstrated excellent physical condition and speed of play. The undisputed leader of beach soccer not only in Europe, but also in the world is the Portuguese national team.”

“I would also like to note the consistent and demanding observance of the rules of the game by the work of the referees. The number of yellow cards has increased significantly, which encourages players to act more carefully in defense, disciplines them and reduces injuries.”

In qualifying for the 2025 World Cup, the blue-yellows lost to Poland (1:8), and beat Norway twice (8:2 and 6:2). In the playoffs, Kostenko’s team did not maintain their advantage over France and lost in overtime.

The Ukrainian national team failed to make it to the second group round of European qualification for the 2025 World Cup. From Europe, Portugal, Spain, Belarus and Italy qualified for the tournament. The final part of the tournament will take place from May 1 to 11 in the Seychelles.