Portugal and El Salvador triumph on opening day in San Salvador

The men's competition of the El Salvador Beach Soccer Cup 2025 kicked off with thrilling victories for the national teams of Portugal and El Salvador.

Portugal edges out Venezuela in a close match

In the day's first encounter, Portugal faced Venezuela and secured a narrow 6-5 victory. The Venezuelan team started strong, with goalkeeper Duque scoring twice and Pérez adding another, while Léo Martins netted one for Portugal, concluding the first period with a 3-1 lead for Venezuela.

In the second period, Portugal mounted a robust comeback, with goals from Coimbra, Bernardo L., Jordan Santos, and Pedro Mano, while Duque completed his hat-trick for Venezuela. In the third period, Coimbra extended Portugal's lead, and although Betancourt pulled one back for Venezuela, Portugal managed to maintain their advantage and clinch the win.

El Salvador defeats Ukraine on penalties after thrilling draw

The host nation, El Salvador, took on Ukraine in the final match of the day. The first period ended in a 1-1 draw, with goals from Zborovskyi for Ukraine and Cruz for El Salvador. In the second period, Zborovskyi completed his hat-trick, and Voitok also scored for Ukraine, while Ruiz found the net for El Salvador.

In the third period, El Salvador managed to level the score with goals from Quienteros and Cerna, pushing the game into extra time and eventually to a penalty shootout. In the shootout, the hosts displayed composure and emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, completing a remarkable comeback.

Results of the day:

• Portugal 6-5 Venezuela

• Ukraine 4-4 El Salvador (El Salvador won 3-1 on penalties)

Upcoming fixtures – 15/02/2025:

• Portugal vs Ukraine

• El Salvador vs Venezuela