Palma Futsal Nears Final Four with Dominant Win Over Semy
Palma Futsal made a strong start to the elite round, defeating Kazakh side Semy 4-1, led by an incredible performance from Fabinho. The two-time UEFA Futsal champions were initially shocked by Higuita’s stunning fourth-minute goal. However, Fabinho, the 23-year-old Brazilian, responded with a hat-trick, carrying his team and virtually securing their spot in a third consecutive Final Four—an unprecedented achievement for the Mallorcan club.
Under Antonio Vadillo’s guidance, Palma showcased their growing pedigree in just their third season in Europe’s top competition. Their name now commands both respect and fear. Semy’s ambitious project, featuring Ferrao, fell short in front of a packed Son Moix, where Palma extended their unbeaten streak in the UEFA Futsal Champions League to 20 matches (15 wins, 5 draws) since debuting in 2022.
Despite the early final feel of the match, Palma’s depth and competitive efficiency ensured victory. Their next challenge comes on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. against Slovakian side Lucenec, who lost 3-1 to Record Bielsko-Biała. The Poles, coached by Catalan Chus López, will be Palma’s final Group D opponents on Saturday at 7:30 p.m., in a bid to seal their Final Four spot.
Jimbee Cartagena Shines in Group A
Meanwhile, Jimbee Cartagena impressed in their debut at the Palacio de los Deportes, crushing Meta Catania 8-1. Cortés delivered a hat-trick, and Pablo Ramírez added two goals. Duda’s squad played a flawless match against the Italians, with Thai center Osamanmusa scoring his first goal for the team.
On Thursday at 8:30 p.m., Jimbee faces a decisive clash with Riga, the Latvian champions. Riga dominated Romanian side United Galati 6-0, led by coach Cacau’s foreign legion of seven Brazilians and two Argentines. Goalkeeper Vandeson Silva scored twice, and Ángel Claudino also found the net but will miss the Jimbee match after receiving a red card.
