FIFA is counting down to the tournament by showcasing 10 of the greatest moments in FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup history.
It was the coastal coup of the century. Brazil had lured Romario – the Romario – to take a break from 11-a-side football and play in the inaugural FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™.
After protracted negotiations with Vasco da Gama, whom he had helped stun Manchester United in the maiden FIFA Club World Cup™, ‘Shortie’ signed a new contract – one unprecedented across the planet – which enabled him to take a break from their season to play on sand.
There was barely space for a grain of it in the Copacabana Beach Soccer Arena as Brazil lined up for their quarter-final. The tension among the sardined spectators was through the roof – they simply couldn’t lose to at home against arch-enemies Argentina.
One Brazilian was, nevertheless, habitually chilled. “Relax,” remarked the USA 94 hero. “The Copacabana is my house. Romario will score and the Seleção will win.”
It took him just 59 seconds to do that. Romario then scored again with a spectacular strike. When all was said and done, Romario had a hat-trick and Brazil had thrashed Argentina 9-3.
“I told you,” said Romario post-game. “[This atmosphere] is crazy. I belong on the beach. I love this sport and I love beating Argentina.”
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