Following the controversy surrounding FIFA’s poster, the World Cup in Uzbekistan finally kicked off, with Brazil affirming its status as the favorite by demolishing Cuba 10-0. Mark Xavier’s squad had an easy debut against the Caribbeans, who had seen two of their top players leave the team during their European preparations. First, Harold Aguilera left in Portugal, followed by goalkeeper Leonardo Hierrezuelo in Spain. Brazil’s rout caught the attention of ElPozo Murcia, as two of its players, Marlon and Marcel Marques, each scored hat-tricks.
The left-winger, last season’s top scorer in the First Division, has yet to renew his contract with the Jamoneros but increased his value with another standout performance. In the second half, Roncaglio took over goalkeeping duties for Brazil after paying 20,000 euros himself to be released from Anderlecht. Five-time champions Brazil now lead Group B with three points, as do Thailand, who defeated Croatia 2-1 in the opening match. Miguel Rodrigo’s team impressed with goals from Jimbee Cartagena’s new signing Muhammad and Ronnachai, while goalkeeper Senbat played a crucial role in securing the victory. Croatia’s only goal came from Sekulic. The second round of Group B matches will take place on Tuesday, with Brazil facing Croatia and Thailand taking on Cuba.
Group A
In Group A, Paraguay defeated Costa Rica 5-2 with goals from Emerson Méndez, Pedro Pascottini, Arnaldo Báez, and Francisco Báez, while Minor Cabalceta and Edwin Cubillo scored for Costa Rica. At the Arena Humo in Tashkent, Uzbekistan earned a 3-3 draw against the Netherlands despite dealing with numerous injuries. Including their captain Dilshod Rakhmatov and key players Choriyev, Eliboyev, and Zhuraev. The Netherlands led throughout the match, but in the final minute, Nishonov’s goal, with the help of the goalkeeper, salvaged a valuable point. The tournament features 24 teams divided into six groups of four. With the top two teams from each group and the four best third-placed teams advancing to the round of 16.
