Top-ranked teams have made a dominant, high-scoring start to the inaugural Futsal Women’s World Cup in Manila, with Portugal and Italy recording emphatic victories.
Portugal, ranked third globally, overwhelmed Tanzania 10-0 on Sunday, immediately taking the lead in Group C.
Italy delivered the tournament’s largest victory so far, a resounding 17-0 rout of Panama. This win places them atop Group D.
World No. 1 Brazil also secured an opening win, defeating Iran 4-1 on Sunday. They share the Group D lead with Italy.
Spain, the world’s second-ranked team, began its campaign on Saturday with a 5-2 victory over Thailand.
These early results underscore the commanding performances by the sport’s top nations at the tournament in the Philippines.
Sunday’s matches, held at the PhilSports Arena near Manila, also saw Japan beat New Zealand 6-0 in Group C. Japan now shares the Group C lead with Portugal.
Portugal holds an advantage in goal difference over Japan.
The lowest-scoring match of the tournament to date was Colombia’s 2-0 win against Canada.
The second round of group stage matches is scheduled to begin Monday. Poland will face Argentina, and host Philippines will play Morocco in Group A fixtures.