Senegal have advanced to the semi-finals of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025™ after a dramatic last-second 4-3 extra-time victory over Italy on Thursday at the Paradise Arena in Victoria.
Senegal will now face Belarus in Saturday’s semi-final as they chase their first-ever appearance in the final of this global beach soccer spectacle. The African powerhouse’s previous best finish was fourth place in 2021.
The thrilling quarter-final clash between Senegal and Italy was a pulsating contest filled with momentum shifts. Mamour Diagne gave Senegal an early lead, but Italy stormed back in the second period with goals from Tommaso Fazzini, Emmanuele Zurlo, and Camillo Marchesi.
Sanou Laye Thiaw pulled one back to keep Senegal’s hopes alive, but they still trailed 2-3 heading into the final period.
Ousseynou Faye leveled the score to force extra time, setting the stage for a breathtaking finish. With just two seconds remaining before the match would go to penalties, Diagne struck again, sending Senegal into the semi-finals and sparking wild celebrations on the sand.
The crowd at the Paradise Arena erupted in support of the African champions, roaring as if host nation Seychelles had scored.
Champions at the #BSAFCON, semi-finalists at the #BeachSoccerWC. 🌟
The Lions of Teranga are not slowing down. 🦁🇸🇳 pic.twitter.com/bT3p7vlocR
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) May 8, 2025Senegal’s next opponent, Belarus, reached the semi-finals with a tense 4-3 win over Iran, powered by a brace from Ihar Bryshtsel. Belarus will present a formidable challenge for Senegal as both teams eye a historic final berth.
Elsewhere, Portugal edged Japan 7-6 in one of the most unforgettable matches in FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™ history. Portugal took the lead six times, with Japan equalizing five times, but the European giants ultimately held on.
Portugal will now face defending champions Brazil, who produced a commanding 6-0 win over Spain, in the other semi-final.
With the semi-finals set, all eyes turn to the sandy shores of Victoria as Senegal continue their quest for a maiden FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup title.
