On May 1st, the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025 officially began in Seychelles, marking the first time this prestigious tournament is being hosted by an African island nation. The matches are taking place against the tropical coastline of the Indian Ocean, creating a unique atmosphere that blends world-class sport with natural beauty.
The opening day featured three standout matches:
Japan 6:2 Guatemala (Group A)
Japan took control early and maintained strong coordination throughout the match.
Mauritania 4:5 Iran (Group B)
A close and intense game, with Iran securing the win in the final minutes.
Seychelles 3:6 Belarus (Group A)
The host nation showed determination and scored three goals, though Belarus’ experience gave them the advantage.
Crowds filled the stands with energy and support, reflecting the welcoming and spirited nature of Seychellois culture. For many visitors, the event offers a rare chance to enjoy world-level sport in a relaxed, tropical environment.
The tournament continues through mid-May as the world’s top national teams compete for the championship title. For Seychelles, this moment represents both sporting pride and a significant step forward in positioning the islands as a destination for international events. For Swedish travelers and sports enthusiasts, it is an appealing blend of football, sunshine, and culture far from the European spring.
Salim C. Mathieu, Founder of Seychelles in Sweden, notes that hosting the tournament brings new opportunities for cultural exchange and tourism interest from Scandinavia.
Stay updated on match results and tournament developments via Seychelles Nation.