Seismic Upset: Kazakhstan Knocks Out Reigning World Champions Portugal in Futsal Thriller

ANDIJAN, UZBEKISTAN – September 26, 2024 – The FIFA Futsal World Cup 2024 was rocked by a seismic upset in the Round of 16 as Kazakhstan defeated the reigning world champions, Portugal, in a nail-biting encounter at the Andijan Universal Sports Complex. A dramatic goal in the final seconds secured a monumental 2-1 victory for the Kazakh side, sending the titleholders home and booking their own ticket to the Quarter-finals.

The atmosphere was electric for the clash, which served as a revenge match for Kazakhstan, who had been eliminated by Portugal in a penalty shootout during the 2021 World Cup Semi-finals.

The Decisive Blow

Kazakhstan, coached by Paulo Ricardo Kaka, executed a resilient defensive strategy, relying heavily on the brilliance of their legendary goalkeeper, Higuita, who was ultimately named the Player of the Match for a performance described by the team as “a miracle.”

Kazakhstan drew first blood in the 11th minute with a strike from Chingiz Yessenamanov. The reigning champions responded immediately after the break, with Zicky netting the equalizer in the 21st minute, setting the stage for a tense second half.

As the clock ticked down and the match seemed destined for extra time, it was a moment of late-game heroics that decided the contest. With mere seconds remaining, Dauren Tursagulov smashed home the game-winning goal, sparking pandemonium on the Kazakh bench and sending the Portuguese players—who had been unbeaten in 25 major tournament matches—into shock.

A Historic Victory

Speaking after the match, a jubilant Coach Kaka stated, “I think given the team situation, with injuries and a key suspension, today’s win is the most important in the history of Kazakh futsal.” The victory was a profound testament to the team’s collective effort and tactical discipline.

Star player Douglas Jr. also highlighted the significance of the win, noting the sweet taste of revenge after the 2021 semi-final defeat. “Today God gave us the opportunity to play against them again. We emerged victorious… It’s a dream.”

While Kazakhstan’s inspirational run was eventually ended by Argentina in the Quarter-finals (a 6-1 defeat), the dramatic victory over the champions, Portugal, remains the defining moment of their tournament, uniting Central Asian fans in a historic celebration of futsal prowess.

Author Profile

Khalid Javed

Khalid Javed is known as Khalid Minhas is editor of Daily Olympic.He is a seasoned journalist and worked with different national and international media outlets.