BAREFOOT: The Beach Soccer Mag - ISSUE 08

CAMPIONI D’EUROPA! ITALY SEIZE THE EBSL THRONE AFTER 13 YEARS EMILIANO DEL DUCA #08

THE COACH OF CHAMPIONS REVEALS HOW THE AZZURRI CONQUERED EUROPE

NEW BALL PRESENTING THE SUNSET, THE NEW OFFICIAL BEACH SOCCER BALL

HUAWEI INTERCONTINENTAL CUP PREVIEW

EVERYTHING ABOUT THE COMING SHOWDOWN IN DUBAI

02 - CONTENTS

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IN THIS ISSUE...

EBSL 2018 SPECIAL DIGEST This year’s Euro Beach Soccer League came to a conclusion in the beautiful Alghero, Sardinia (ITA), just the place to see the Italian National Team crowned kings of Europe. But this wasn’t all that went on, as there was plenty of room for more drama and unforgettable moments in the final chapter of this season’s Continental League. Barefoot brings you a very special synopsis you do not want to miss!

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INTERCONTINENTAL CUP PREVIEW The Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup lands in Dubai for its 8th edition. Will Brazil clinch silverware for a third consecutive year? What can we expect of this year’s showpiece? Read all about it here!

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EUROPEAN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Who won what on the Old Continent? Read about how the European leagues unfolded as we gear up for another Euro Winners Cup.

44 ALANYA BEACH SOCCER CUP REVIEW

Alanya hosted the last BSWW Tour of 2018.

Let’s fly back to Turkey for a quick review of what happened there!

BEACH SOCCER STARS 2018 The most special night in the beach soccer calender will again crown the best of the season.

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ENHANCE YOUR INSTAGRAM Find out the best ways to develop your online presence as an athlete.

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FROM THE ARCHIVES EMILIANO DEL DUCA

PRESENTING THE NEW SUNSET

The Italian national coach sits down with Barefoot to The new Beach Soccer Worldwide official ball is here to explain his feelings after the securing of only the second stay. Find out all the details, as well as what the players ever European crown for the Azzurri. think about it.

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Old but gold: We dive into beach soccer’s photo archives to bring you unique memories.

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FAN PICS

With fans like these, who needs a photographer?

From different corners of the world, pictures that you can’t help but love…

68 SADAGAT & FREDERICK

Read about one of the most heart-warming love stories ever to happen in the world of beach soccer.

VEGETARIAN FUEL

Is a vegetarian diet fully compatible with the practice of high-performance sports? Is it suitable for athletes?

COMING UP

After Dubai, the ball keeps flying. Find out the next stops in the calendar before the end of the year!

04 - KICKING OFF

KICKING OFF In the coming days, we will land again in on of our dream destinations. A place, which I always say, a we are proud to call home. A place that fulfills everything we can ask for: our beloved Dubai. And when this time of the year comes, we cannot help getting extra excited, lively, looking forward to the moment in which we culminate the season with the Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup Dubai and the Beach Soccer Stars gala.

A time in the year in which we come together and celebrate the great moments we have just experienced together, and we jointly award the most outstanding performers in our sport, both on and off the pitch. Soon, we will get to know who the best in the season have been, always according to the players, the coaches and the fans, what make these awards even more special.

But we also use these weeks to think ahead, and we try to find the ways to improve our sport. To make it more spectacular, more catchy, more appealing. But also, to make it more fair, finding the balance that helps the competition grow in a healthy manner.

And for this, we also like to hear what the experts have to say. We want to have our main stakeholders involved, and we like to listen to coaches, promoters, players and referees, because that enriching debate is the one that helps us find that measures that will benefit the next steps to be made by beach soccer. You will be hearing some of those in these coming days, too.

Just coming from the excellent Euro Beach Soccer League conclusion in Alghero, I would also like to congratulate our friends from the Italian National Team, the Lega Nazionale Dilettanti and the FIGC for their terrific success in bringing the crown back after such a long time.

There is much about all that in this new issue of Barefoot, the Beach Soccer Mag: celebrations, reviews, new strategies and coming surprises. And also, amazing instances of things that prove that the beach soccer people, are just a special breed, with stories you could hardly find elsewhere.

We really hope you enjoy it!

Editorial Director Iñaki Uribarri Editor-in-Chief Matthew Mills Design Director Laura Cuscó Design Manager Adrian Velado Photographers Lea Weil Manuel Queimadelos Diogo Pinto (FPF) Marcello Zambrana Contributors Lele Villar TV & Sponsorship Alex Soriano Edited by Beach Soccer Worldwide, SL Executive Vice-president Joan Cuscó

Joan Cuscó BSWW Vice-president and FIFA Beach Soccer CEO

06 - SNAPPED

ALGHERO FROM THE AIR

The EBSL Superfinal took place on the pristine Italian island of Sardinia. Framed between shimmering sea, sand and sky... What better place to see champions crowned?

08 - SNAPPED

THE FLYING GERMAN

Timo KnĂźppe soars to snatch a shot out of the air in the Euro Beach Soccer League Superfinal in Alghero, Italy.

10 - SNAPPED

THE THREE MUSKETEERS

Zemskov battles for Russian possession against Portugal’s giants, Madjer and Bruno Novo at the Superfinal in Alghero.

12 - SNAPPED

IN SAFE HANDS The Superfinal in Alghero sees the Azerbaijani keeper, Vagif, scramble across the sand to stop an opponent attack.

14 - SNAPPED

IN LOVING MEMORY...

Ukraine’s Yurri Shcherytsia wears a T-shirt in memory of his friend, Derdel Bogdan, who died suddenly. Gone but not forgotten...

16 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

EBSL SUPERFINAL DIGEST

THE AZZURR

Llorenรง (MVP), Del Mestre (Best GK) and Bryshtel (Top Scorer) took the individual awards

RI ARE BACK!

18 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

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here was something special about the 2018 edition of the Euro Beach Soccer League Superfinal. For one thing, neither finalist had won the competition in a very long time. Spain hadn’t claimed the title in 12 years, and Italy in 13…

The Road to the Final Spain had not lost a game ahead of the final showdown in Alghero, following a perfect campaign in Warnemunde, Germany and going unbeaten in Nazaré (Portugal).

La Roja ended their regular phase campaign on 15 points, while Italy, following what could be seen as a disappointing run in the regular phase events, sat on nine points.

Things appeared to change for the Azzurri as soon as they arrived in Sardinia and there is little doubt that the raucous crowds cheering their heroes on helped to boost the morale of the hosts. Italy were drawn in Group Division A – Group 2, along with Belarus, Russia and Ukraine.

Their first game saw them grab a nervy three points against Belarus (who finished four places above them in the regular phase standings) when Ramacciotti kept his cool to convert from close range with just 20 seconds to go!

Elsewhere on the first day, the reigning champions Russia handed a 6-0 beating to Ukraine, and in Division A – Group 1 (consisting of Azerbaijan, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland), the 2017 runners-up, Portugal, scored seven to take three points against Switzerland.

Spain extended their unbeaten run with a hard fought win against Azerbaijan. and it was a similar story the next day when Joaquin Alonso’s men met Angelo Schirinzi’s Swiss side.

A Stankovic hat-trick put Switzerland in control at 2-3 but a late Antonio equaliser was followed by a superb Llorenç winner. Spain had taken another three points and were just one win away from a place in the final.

The other game in Group 1 on the second day, was Portugal against Azerbaijan. Mario Narciso’s men were clinical in their finishing as Portugal put nine goals past Azerbaijan, who were unable to find the net.

In Group 2, the match between Ukraine and Belarus remained goalless for most of the game. Normal time ended 1-1, but Belarus snatched the win in extra time.

In the day’s final game, Italy met the competition’s reigning champions, Russia, and it was a must-win for both teams if they wanted to make it to the final.

After a riveting first two periods, Russia managed to carve themselves a two-goal lead. Italy were running out of time but two late goals from Gori and Zurlo forced Mikhail Likhachev’s side to extra time.

It was in extra time that Simone Marinai flicked the ball over the line from point blank range, to snatch two precious points, and the stadium exploded with the cheers of ecstatic fans.

Just one more group game against Ukraine to go, and Italy were in the final. Once more it would be extra time that decided the game, as the Azzurri kept the packed stadium in suspense until the final moments.

Having led 2-5, Italy let a three-goal lead slip, and Glutskyi rifled home an equaliser with just a minute to go, making the score 5-5 and forcing added time.

It was Gabriele Gori who became the people’s hero as he pounced on a Ramacciotti rebound to snatch victory in extra time. Italy were in the final!

Russia beat Belarus by two goals to one, to clinch a place in the European Games Minsk, but would have to settle for 3rd or 4th place.

Fourteen shots were needed in the penalty kick shootout

20 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

Switzerland and Azerbaijan fought hard for a third position finish in Group 1, and the Swiss mounted an incredible comeback to turn around a 1-5 scoreline, and win the match 8-5.

The Group 1 fight for a place in the final was between Spain and Portugal, after neither side had lost yet. The teams were neck and neck throughout the match; as soon as one team scored there was a reply from the other and it looked as if extra time would be needed to decide the victor.

But then Llorenç found the smallest pocket of space and the Spanish number ten smashed home a signature bicycle kick to seize the place in the final.

So, the final showdown was decided… Italy v Spain.

The final The geographical location for the Mediterranean match-up was perfect, as the island of Sardinia, despite being part of Italy, sits midway between the two mainlands of Spain and Italy.

It was as if the two sides had met in the middle to do battle for the European beach soccer throne, which had flitted between Russian and Portuguese rule since then, with Switzerland (2012) and Ukraine (2016) each winning the title once too.

The queue to watch the final started forming hours before the game, and the Azzurri were guaranteed a stadium full of support.

The teams flew onto the sand and rather than holding back, they went straight into attack mode. Shots bounced of the bodies of both goalkeepers and rattled the woodwork.

Dona, between the Spanish posts, started to become the busier of the two and the home crowd cheered on their heroes, who piled on the pressure. Frainetti provided the opener deep into the second period, in the form of a fine free-kick, which was received with raucous applause.

But Llorenç levelled up with a long-range volley, and the sides went into the third and final period all square. With just three minutes of normal time to go, Palmacci thought he’d won it for Italy, but Llorenç wasn’t finished yet and he levelled up just moments later to force extra time, and made many enemies in the stands at the same time.

The spectators clearly recognised the danger that the Spanish striker presented to their title hope and Llorenç’s every touch was met with boos. Extra time couldn’t separate the sides, and the final would be decided on penalties…

First, up stepped Chiavaro for Italy, and he scored. Then Llorenç – goal. Then Gori – goal. Then Antonio – goal. This went on until the fourteenth penalty, which fell to the Spanish number 18, Jose Enrique, and when he struck to the keeper’s right, Simone del Mestre guessed right.

The Italian players sprinted to their keeper and buried him in celebration. They had made history and the festivities went on well into the night.

One consolation to ease the Spanish sorrow was the fact that Llorenç had his efforts recognised in the individual awards, as he picked up the MVP award. The best goalkeeper went to Simone del Mestre and the Belarussian captain, Bryshtel took the trophy for being the top scorer.

It was a touching sight to see the fans who had booed him just minutes ago, clapping in appreciation, before departing the stadium to celebrate with their heroes.

A stunning save by Del Mestre sent the Azzurri to the glory

Joaquin Alonso’s side had also qualified for the European Games in Minsk, as had Ukraine, Russia, Portugal, Switzerland, of course Italy, as well as the hosts, Belarus. In the third-place play-off Portugal beat Russia on penalties to claim bronze.

Having won the Euro Beach Soccer League just once before, 13 years ago, Italy made history this year, seeing off some of the continent’s most formidable opponents to claim the title on home sand.

Complimenti to the Azzurri!

22 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

PROMOTION FINAL

GERMANY RETAIN DIVISION A STATUS

Germany stay in the top division after much suffering

24 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

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s the ultimate battles to be crowned kings of Europe raged in the Superfinal of the Euro Beach Soccer League, at the same time a different war was being waged on the Italian island of Sardinia.

The Promotion Final presented a chance for seven Division B teams to claim a place among the big guns for the coming season. However, it also presented a scrap to avoid the drop and for one team who had struggled alongside the Division A firepower during this year’s regular stage events.

Germany went to Sardinia to try and turn around the poor form they had experienced in Azerbaijan and Germany.

After losing the six games in the regular stage, Matteo Marrucci’s side found themselves drawn in Division B – Group 1, along with Hungary, Kazakhstan and Moldova. In very opposite form to their German groupmates, Kazakhstan had enjoyed an unbeaten run in their regular stage events and when they won their opening two games in Sardinia with relative ease, Yerlan Jamantayev’s side could be forgiven for fancying their chances in this year’s bid for promotion.

The Kazakhs saw off Hungary 5-3 in their first game, with Muralinov scoring a hat-trick. Two more from the number nine helped them defeat Moldova 6-2 on day two. However, at the same time, Germany had finally found winning form, also beating Moldova and Hungary on the opening two days.

Against Moldova, Germany took an early four-goal lead, and they managed to end the tie enjoying an equal advantage, as the game finished 6-2, the Germans first win in the league of the year.

The following day, they handed Hungary a seven-goal beating, as Basiel built on his goal from the day before by netting three times to sink their rivals, who could only manage one consolation goal.

Kazakhstan made things difficult Both Kazakhstan and Germany sat on six points and would meet in their last group fixture to decide who progressed to the Promotion Final. The position-retaining Germans against the, as yet, undefeated Kazakhs...

The match was close from start to finish, as the prolific Basiel struck again to open the scoring for Germany, but they saw the lead immediately stamped out by Chapanov. The game remained in this tense state of stalemate as the clock approached 36 minutes and extra time was in sight.

But then a breakthrough! Korner found the net to the dismay of Kazakhstan who had come so far, and just to finish the tie off, Metzler converted a matter of seconds before the whistle to take the final score to 3-1.

Germany would face the already-decided winner from Division B – Group 2…

In Group 2 were Bulgaria, England, Norway and Romania. Each of these teams had the potential to mount a claim to play Division A beach soccer in 2019. Apart from Norway who were beaten

by Bulgaria in Nazaré, each team had gone undefeated in their regular phase campaigns.

Romania kicked off their promotion campaign strongly, with a decisive 1-6 win against Bulgaria, while Norway forced England into extra time only to let the points slip by three goals to two.

On day two, Bulgaria crushed Norwegian hopes of promotion to Division A by beating them 5-4, while England v Romania finished 2-2 after normal time. It then went to 3-3 in extra time and the

The Promotion final went down to the penalty kick shootout, too

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26 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

Andrei Paul missed the fifth spot kick for Romania

English held their nerve to take a point on penalties.

Romania would have their chance The third day started with Romania doing everything they could to secure passage into the final, as they claimed a 6-3 victory over Norway. It was now down to England to win in normal time if they wanted that Promotion Final spot.

But Bulgaria proved stubborn, and when the whistle to signal the end of normal time blew, with the score at 3-3, the Romanians went wild in the stands; they had made it to the final.

English heads dropped as they played the game out despite a place in Promotion Final being cruelly snatched away from them, and eventually losing on penalties.

The Promotion Final was set: Germany v Romania.

After failing to pick up points in the regular phases of the league, Germany had made it through the group stages in Sardinia, seeing off their Division B rivals with contrasting ease.

But the final showdown against a strong Romanian side would not be so easily won. It was the Die Mannschaft star number seven, Biermann, who opened the scoring after a matter of seconds to raucous celebration from the German bench. However, the lead was short lived as the Romanian captain, Maci, powered in an overhead volley to equalise.

Basiel then scored his sixth of the competition to retake the lead for Matteo Marrucci’s side from the penalty spot. The teams went into the first break separated by just one goal.

The second period saw more dangerous chances created but no more goals until Metzler scored just before the second break.

Going into the final period Germany were enjoying a 3-1 advantage, and then Korner beat the Romanian keeper, Andrei Paul, in a foot race to poke the ball home and make it four.

However, the Romanian number one had his revenge as he sent a rocket flying into the German net just two minutes later, bringing the score to 4-2. Maci then spun to smash a low volley home to grab a goal back. At 4-3, Romania were in sight of catching their rivals.

Then, with just two minutes on the clock, the captain leapt an incredible height to catch a long ball at the near post to score one of the most acrobatic bicycle kicks of the tournament, and Romania were level.

The match proceeded to extra time but when no one could score to claim victory, so it went to penalties.

Metzler converted first for Germany. Then, everyone’s heart stopped when Maci’s penalty hit the post, only to bounce into the net to bring Romania level. The shootout dragged on and the teams were still level pegging after eight penalties. Basiel scored the ninth. And then the tenth fell to Andrei Paul.

Keeper vs keeper, it was the ultimate test of nerves and the Germans won, as Andrei Paul, after scoring in open play, hit his spot kick straight into the arms of his opposite number.

The Germans went ballistic in celebration, they had retained their Division A status and Romania were very close and worthy runners-up.

Both teams will stay in their divisions for the coming year, as Romania swallow a bitter pill, along with some valuable experience, and Matteo Marrucci’s men breath a huge sigh of relief.

28 - THE INTERVIEW

“WE FINALLY MADE THAT LAST STEP” EMILIANO DEL DUCA ITALY’S NATIONAL COACH

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inning the Euro Beach Soccer League for Italy after 13 years was not the end of the way for Italian national coach Emiliano del Duca, but just the accomplishment of the mission he and his players had been entrusted with. After this major success, the Azzurri view the future with ambition, as coach Del Duca explains.

What was it like being crowned Champions of Europe?

Let’s say it was a mix of joy, pride and a lot of satisfaction because the goal I was brought in by the Federation to achieve, was achieved in this very moment: after coming so close to success many times before, the team had to take the final, most difficult step.

What was the first thing that you thought when Del Mestre saved that last penalty?

When Del Mestre pushed away the last penalty I did not think - I ran. But it was more than running; it was like flying. In those few meters, in those few seconds, were all the sacrifices I have made to train the Italian National Team; fifteen years in which I worked so hard to try to improve myself as a man, and as a coach. I started from the bottom and the climb was long and full of obstacles, but the joy I felt in that victory is indescribable, I feel repaid for all of the effort I have put into the role.

At the beginning of the season did you think that you could become the champions of Europe?

I always believed it. I was called in for this reason, even though I was aware that the challenge was a tough one. I owe a big thank you to my technical staff, who are of the highest level and who have always supported me. I do not deny that after the first regular stage in Baku I was not at all satisfied. Those days were hard, but with work on the field, as well as the necessary tactical adjustments, we got back on track and during our next stage in Minsk we started to turn things around. At the end of the event in Belarus, I told the players that we had to believe in ourselves, because if we continued to play with the same intensity and tactical rigor seen in Minsk, we could be the protagonists of the Superfinals.

Before becoming coach of the national team, you won everything with Terracina. How and when did your Beach Soccer adventure start?

It all started in 2003, when, together with a group of friends, with whom we had already participated in an unofficial competition, we decided to take part in the first FIGC / LND championship. The team was called Terranova Terracina and over time we improved by adapting to the sport with totally innovative training methods, which allowed us to become one of the most entertaining Italian

“When Del Mestre saved that penalty, I felt I was flying�

30 - THE INTERVIEW

Beach Soccer sides, as well as the most decorated club in Italy.

Then in 2015 I was asked by the Italian Federation to support Agostini as an assistant coach, until March 2018 when I was entrusted with the role of coach. You know the rest of the story.

How was the transfer of responsibilities on the national team staff with Massimo Agostini, now the Azzurri Head of Delegation?

Agostini and I have known each other for a long time. I was glad that he was the one to give me the news of my new assignment of coach. The exchange of responsibilities was natural, also because as an assistant coach I always gave my all, putting all my knowledge and passion at the disposal of the team. So, when my time arrived, I accepted the offer with great enthusiasm, aware that everyone was expecting a lot from me. In this team I want to leave a mark and I would say that the start has been encouraging...

What was your first goal when you took on the job at the National team?

The first goal was to succeed in instigating my ideas, my way of being and my thinking about Beach Soccer. I wanted to transmit the passion that I have for this sport to the players.

What I wanted was for the team to take to the field being organized, humble, tactically perfect and offering something to excite and make the Italian fans proud. Being the coach of Italy is a fantastic thing that makes me and my family proud. I think that for the players, playing for the Italian national team is an honour and when you wear that blue shirt you have to be able to transmit the right energy. I believe that in Alghero, this energy was clear to see.

Do you think Italy can win the World Cup? Have the two defeats in the previous two semi-finals helped to strengthen the spirit of the team?

First of all, we have to qualify and that will not be easy, as only four* European teams go to the World Cup. The National team is very united and there is a great team spirit among the players, but this is not enough if you do not train professionally and if you do not remain humble. We must keep in mind that winning is not normal, but an extraordinary event. We must keep our feet firmly on the ground, always bearing in mind that there are teams that are stronger than us and that victories can only come if we believe in our abilities and our work.

What are the next goals, both personally and for the team?

As a personal goal I would like to maintain a winning cycle, which can also guarantee a targeted generational change in Italy for the future. I will work hard towards this. The next team goal is to do well in 2019, which is a year full of important commitments like the World Cup qualifiers, the European Games and the Euros. Now comes the difficult part, because we have to reconfirm that we are among the best in Europe.

The future is still to be written... *Following the last FIFA Council meeting, Europe has since been awarded five berths for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Paraguay 2018.

“We need to stay humble and keep training hard.�

32 - PREVIEW

HUAWEI INTERCONTINENTAL CUP DUBAI 2018

NEXT STOP - DUBAI!

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he Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup 2018 is nearly upon us… Between the 6th and 10th of November, eight of the world’s top teams from every continent on the globe will be battling for supremacy on the sand in one of Dubai’s most iconic places, Kite Beach, right in front of the world-famous Burj Al Arab.

The eight participating national selections are: UAE (Hosts), Brazil, Egypt, Iran, Russia, Spain, Tahiti and USA. The sides were sorted into two groups in a draw that was held on the 10th of October, at the Dubai Sports Council Headquarters.

Joining the hosts, UAE, in Group A are Egypt, debutants Spain and the reigning champions, Brazil.

In Group B are former champions Iran, three-time champions Russia, as well as Tahiti and USA. The Emirati haven’t finished the event in the top three since 2013, when they came in third behind the runners-up (Russia) and the winners, Iran. Could they become only the fourth side to win the competition this year?

Intending to show no politeness to their hosts and make it three Intercontinental Cup titles in a row, are world champions, Brazil.

They will be joined by the team that they defeated in the 2017 World Cup final, Tahiti, who finished fourth in last year’s event in Dubai.

The third national side traveling to the UAE from the Americas is the USA, who will be playing in their fourth edition of the competition.

Following the bitter defeat in the Euro Beach Soccer League final against Italy, Joaquin Alonso’s Spanish side will be looking to make an impression in their debut appearance at the Intercontinental Cup. Russia, the only side to have competed in every single edition alongside their UAE hosts, are aiming for a fourth title this year, which would take their total to one more than Brazil. The African representation will come from Egypt, and 2018 will be

their fourth consecutive participation, with their best finish being in 2015, when thr Pharaohs made it to the semi-finals and ended the tournament in fourth position.

Last but not least, and with the shortest distance to travel, is Iran.

The Persian side are the only team apart from Russia and Brazil to have won the competition.

Can they repeat the heroics of 2013? Will Brazil or Russia make it four? Or will we see a new Intercontinental king crowned this year? Â Stay up to date with the Intercontinental Cup on the BSWW website!

34 - PREVIEW

BEACH SOCCER STARS

DRESSING UP FOR ANOTHER MAGICAL NIGHT

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n the 10th of November, a night of glitz and glamour will mark the closing of the Huawei Intercontinental Cup in Dubai.

All of the sport’s biggest stars will be in attendance, dusting the sand from their feet from the Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup, and slipping into black shoes and high heels.

The opulent backdrop for the grand finale of the beach soccer year will be the V Hotel Dubai Curio Collection by Hilton (previously known as the W Dubai), the same venue as the last year.

The purpose of the night? To share memories with all of beach

soccer’s protagonists and stakeholders, celebrate and recognise the mind-blowing skill of the players and coaches, and, of course, everyone loves an excuse to dress up.

The awards to be presented include: Best Player of the Year: The coaches and captains from teams all over the globe voted for their favourites from a shortlist of 50 players, which was announced on the 1st of October. After tallying their votes, the list went down to three names: Bruno Xavier (BRA), Llorenç (ESP) and Datinha (BRA).

Best Women’s Player of the year: Following inspiring performances in the Euro Winners Cup and the Euro Beach Soccer Cup, the

Night of glitz and glamour to close the season as Beach Soccer Stars returns

three nominees for the Best Women’s Player are: Adriele (BRA), Molly Clark (ENG) and Marina Fedorova (RUS).

own in Dubai. Who do you think was the most voted by their colleagues from all over the world? We will find out soon...

Best Goalkeeper of the Year: Elinton Andrade (POR), Maksim Chuzkhov (RUS) and Mão (BRA) are the nominees for the Best Goalkeeper, a role which is often overlooked amongst such prolific goal scoring – but not on the Beach Soccer Stars night!

Other awards that will be presented at the Beach Soccer Stars 2018 gala include: Best Goal of the Year, Rising Star of the Year and Best Event of the Year, amongst other surprises.

Again, these three men were chosen by the coaches and captains of all the teams in the world.

The night promises to be an unforgettable one and you can watch all the action online as the whole event will be broadcast on the Beach Soccer Worldwide website.

Best Coach of the Year: After winning cups for their teams all season, either Angelo SchirinzI (SUI), Gilberto Costa de Sousa (BRA) or Joaquín Alonso (ESP) will be receiving a trophy of their

Want to go one step further and come to Dubai to rub shoulders with your favourite stars? Well you can! Go to the Beach Soccer Worldwide website to buy your ticket to the gala.

36 - NEW BALL

INTRODUCING...

SUNSET!

Madjer: “It is a great ball for playing in the air”

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Beach Soccer Worldwide have released the new official ball to be used in BSWW competitions from now onwards.

The ball will make its competition debut at the Huawei Intercontinental Beach Soccer Cup 2018 in Dubai between the 6th and 10th of November. Shortly after, the ball will be available to buy, from the 19th of November, and shipping will commence at the beginning of December.

So, you don’t have too long to wait to get your hands on this beauty!

The ball Named Sunset, the new ball consists of 100% TPU (Thermoplastic

Polyurethane) bladder with a rubber interior. On the outside, it has a layer of foam, 2.7mm thick.

It is also made up of six, machine stitched panels and its blue colour has a bright finish and smooth texture.

What the players had to say When creating a new official beach soccer ball, it is, of course, essential to get the opinion of those who will be using it regularly, those who spend hours and hours kicking it, juggling with it, to see how it measures up. We are talking, of course, of the beach soccer players.

We asked three of our beach soccer stars to test the Sunset over

a period of time to see how it performed. This is what they had to say…

Dario Ramacciotti (ITA): “I have always loved playing with the adidas balls but I have to admit the new Beach Soccer Worldwide ball is just as good as. The ball is the right weight for control and for precision shots, as well a nice, soft feel on the feet.”

Madjer (POR): “It is a great ball for playing in the air. It is a quicker ball so it might bring some more intensity to the game. In my opinion, it will lead to more goals for strikers and more spectacle to beach soccer.”

Antonio (ESP): “The new Beach Soccer Worldwide ball meets the

quality of its predecessors - it is very good. After testing it for a few weeks, I am convinced it is an ideal ball to play official beach soccer competitions and for trainings of all levels” It’s nice to know that the sport’s experts approve of the new Sunset, and we hope you like it too!

The arrival of the Sunset signals the start of a new era of beach soccer, and we can’t wait to start making new memories and creating history with the latest addition to the official beach soccer ball lineage.

beachsoccer.com/store

38 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

EUROPEAN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

PROPHETS IN THEIR OWN LAND

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amiliar faces are set to join the fray in the Euro Winners Cup 2019, after securing their domestic league titles, whilst some newcomers join the big boys for the first time.

Many places in the 2019 edition are already occupied and the national championships across Europe are coming to a close.

Some national leagues (including the Turkish championship) are yet to be played, but as most of them have been, we thought we’d review the beach soccer leagues across Europe, taking a look at who won what and which names you should look out for in the Euro Winners Cup 2019.

Italy – 2018 was an historic year for DomusBet Catania as they won their first Italian Aon Serie in ten years, as well as their first Coppa Italia in 13 years. The victory came at the expense of rival finalists, Happy Car Sambenedettese, as Stankovic and Corosiniti each grabbed hat-tricks to force a 7-4 victory for Fabio Costa’s side.

In the women’s league, Lady Terracina kept their cool to take control of the final and claim their fourth consecutive title when two Sandy Iannella goals were enough to see off Lokrians.

Portugal – As always, it was a close fight in the Portuguese league, but the final saw SC Braga fend off a Sporting Clube Portugal comeback, when Rui Coimbra and Jordan Santos cut a 4-0 Braga lead in half.

But when Filipe Silva struck late to make it five, the league trophy was Braga’s, and they added the title to their Euro Winner Cup success in June – not a bad season for the Guerreiros do Minho.

Although Sporting’s men’s team had just fallen short in the league title, their women’s side beat CD Nacional to go all the way and claim the throne in the first edition of the Sete Saias Cup. Russia – Kristall knocked Lokomotiv Moscow off the top spot and returned as league champions, lifting the trophy for the third time in the last four years. Angelo Schirinzi’s side took a 4-1 victory against Delta in the final, while another St Petersburg team won a final of their own…

WFC Zvezda joined their victorious city neighbours by taking the women’s title back to St Petersburg too. After winning the Euro Winners Cup, they secured another year of participation by putting six goals past rivals WFC Neva to take the Russian league title decidedly.

Spain – Antonio scored a grand total of four goals as Levante UD beat CD Bala Azul by eight goals to two in the final of the Spanish league. The Levantinistas had gone unbeaten throughout the campaign and dominated the game from start to finish.

José Miralles, José Enrique, Edu Suárez and Fernando Guisado also got their names on the scoresheet. In the fight for third place, Cadiz CF Sotelo comfortably beat Mentidero CF 6-1 to claim bronze.

Germany – The 2018 German league title was claimed by Rostocker Robben, who scored eight against Kevin Hagemann’s BSC Ibbenburen in the final to lift the cup. The German national team star, Cristian Biermann, opened the scoring for BSC Ibbenburen who were aiming to relive their success of 2016.

The final score finished at 6-3 to Sven Korner’s Rostocker side, and in winning the league for a second year on the bounce, Rostocker Robben secured themselves another year competing in the Euro Winners Cup.

40 - QUARTERLY REVIEW France - Grand Motte Pyramide Beach Soccer toppled the 2017 champions, Marseille Beach Team, by claiming victory against Beach Team 3 Frontieres. It was their 18th victory out of 18 games in the league, and the win featured hat-tricks from Léo Grandon and Stéphane Belhomme.

Meanwhile, the women’s team from the same city, Occitanie, took the female French league title. Occitanie won all three fixtures to claim the title and on the final day, they scored nine against Mediterranee. The city of Occitanie reigns supreme over French beach soccer.

Poland – The 2017 champions, KP Lodz, were dethroned

by Hemako Sztutowo, who fended off a star-studded Boca Gdansk side, to win 6-5 in the final. As well as the Polish title they also won a place in the 2019 Euro Winners Cup after a three-year absence from the competition.

Even with the help of Spanish international Llorenç, KP Lodz could only end the tournament in the third-place.

Lady Grembach EE Lodz, however, defended their title in the women’s Polish league, and took at least one trophy back to the city of Lodz. Brazilian star, Adriele Rocha, assisted the win against Red Devils Ladies Chojnice 4-2 in the final.

Switzerland – In the Suzuki Swiss Beach Soccer League, BSC Chargers Baselland saw off Grasshopper Club Zurich in a 20goal thriller in the final.

The end result was 11-9 to Chargers after many Swiss national players were prolific on both sides. Ott and Stankovic got on the scoresheet, but so did Hodel and Jaeggy, who lifted the trophy with the Basel-based side.

BSC Chargers Baselland also dominated in the women’s league, as they dethroned the reigning champions, BSC Havana Shots Aargau. Goals from England star Molly Clark and Vinzenz meant that the Chargers not only took Havana Shots’ title, but their place in the Euro Winners Cup 2019 as well.

Ukraine – The Ukrainian league saw new champions crowned in 2018, as BSC Euroformat beat BSC VIT by five goals to four in a tantalizingly close final, to take home the silverware, as well as their first ever qualification to the Euro Winners Cup! In the women’s league final, BSC AFC 5G accumulated a sevengoal cushion against School of Sport Chornomorec to claim the trophy and reign over beach soccer in the Ukraine.

Bulgaria - MFC Spartak made it three titles in three years as they defeated SA-MVR in the Bulgarian league final. Simeon Hristov (also head of the Bulgarian national team) and his men won a tense victory after a penalty shootout to secure another year in the Euro Winners Cup Netherlands – BS Egmond took the men’s title in the Netherlands by scoring ten goals in a decisive victory over BSU/VP AFBOUW. In the play-off for third place, the men’s BS Zeeland team defeated BS Rotterdam by four goals to two, to claim bronze.

Meanwhile the women’s BS Zeeland team just managed to seal the top spot in their league with a tight 4-3 win over DTS Ede in the final.

Belarus – In Belarus, the country’s beach soccer league was claimed by a new victor. A seven-year Bate Borisov rule was ended by Grodnooblsport, who toppled the reigning champions.

42 - QUARTERLY REVIEW

It was the first time in their history that Grodnooblsport had won the league, and not only can they boast the top spot in Belarus, but they also sealed their first qualification for the European clubs showpiece, one very important dream all clubs in Europe pursue.

England – On the 22nd of July, BS Gunners were crowned champions of the England Beach Soccer League. It hadn’t been an easy road, as they had to see off a strong Chelsea side in the semi-final.

The Gunners headed into the final full of confidence, where they despatched their rivals, Eastleigh Spitfires, by netting eight times. As Eastleigh could only manage two in response, it was a comfortable win for BS Gunners.

Hungary – GREP-ESC Gyongyos were looking to defend their position at the top of the Hungarian league but challenging them was Jaszfenyszaru GWP Cservy, and they had some Spanish firepower behind them.

Adri Frutos, as well as Javi and Cristian Torres, had made the trip to Siofok to help the eight-time champions reclaim their title.

However, although they lead for much of the game, GREP-ESC Gyongyos mounted a late comeback to snatch the points away in extra time, and retain their title.

Belgium - Cartel Waterloo picked up their third Belgian league crown in four years. The title was decided in a tight final which ended 6-4, fought against LSA Perwez, who had dominated in the buildup to the final.

Newteam Beach Soccer Brussels finished in third place after beating BST Mojitos Rebecq by five goals to three.

Czech Republic – The Czech beach soccer league was decided when Bohemians 1905 beat CR U21 by six goals to four in the final. Czech internationals Martin Chalupa and Filip Vynhal (top scorer of the competition) played a big part in the Bohemians 1905 victory.

Defending champions, SK Bosnia Online Teplice, had a disappointing season, and could only manage finishing in the seventh place.

Greece – After missing out to a strong performance in the league by Kefallinia AO last year, 2018 saw Atlas AO reclaim their position at the top of Greek beach soccer.

With nine points, Atlas secured their third title (the last ones coming in 2015 and 2016), and at the same time secured passage to the 2019 Euro Winners Cup.

Slovakia – In Slovakia, new champions were crowned in 2018, as Husty lifted the trophy thanks to reinforcements from the national teams of the Czech Republic and Poland, which ended up adding a relevant contribution to the team’s performance.

They won 3-0 against Artful BSC Bratislava, but then a mighty comeback saw the lead slip. It took an extra spurt of energy to snatch the win in extra time.

Lithuania – After winning all of their games, it was another successful year for BSC IGOL who brushed aside all of their rivals to claim the top spot.

A number of players from the Lithuanian national beach soccer team played a part in the decisive victories. In second place came FC Narjanta (Kupiskis) and in third, FC Audra-Magneta (Vilnius).

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2017 Mundialito champions Lokomotiv added a new trophy to their cabinet

ALANYA BEACH SOCCER CUP

A NEW EVENT IS BORN IN TURKEY

T

his year not only saw the return of many of everyone’s favourite beach soccer events, but also the birth of some brand-new ones.

In 2018, the beach soccer calendar welcomed a new arrival: the Alanya Beach Soccer Cup. This event, taking place in the Turkish city of Alanya, in the southern coast of the country, was held between the 5th and 7th of October.

The participants had all competed in the Nazaré Cup or the Euro Winners Cup (or even both), and were amongst the top beach soccer clubs in the sport. They would battle it out in a Round Robin system.

The event hosts, Alanya Belediye Spor (Turkey), were joined by Sporting CP (Portugal), Lokomotiv Moscow (Russia) and Levante UD (Spain).

The opening game saw a real clash of beach soccer giants, as Lokomotiv took on Sporting.

Fedorov opened the scoring for the Russians but Coimbra wasn’t far behind him, netting just a minute later. But from that point on it was one-way traffic and the Railway Men ran away with the tie, which ended 6-3.

In the second game of the opening day, Levante would do the same against hosts Alanya Belediye Spor. It was a cruel initiation for the local side, as La Roja international forward, Eduard Suarez was in inspired form, scoring four times.

Braces from Spain teammates, Adri Frutos and José Miralles, helped Levante rack up a grand total of 10 goals, to which Alanya Belediye Spor could only manage four in response.

The two victors from day one would face each other on day two, and it was Lokomotiv who managed to hold off their Spanish opponents, Levante, to win 4-2, making it two wins in a row.

The hosts were beaten for a second time in two days by Sporting in a close match where a Belchior brace was enough to sink Alanya Belediye Spor.

On the final day, it was an Iberian battle as Levante took on Sporting, both in search of second place, being unable to knock the Muscovites off the top spot.

Levante took the lead with an early goal from Pajón, but then Madjer and Coimbra netted to put Sporting in control. The game remained close until the score reached 4-3, and Levante ran out of time.

Lokomotiv bid their hosts of fond farewell on the final day by handing them a 3-8 beating, ending the tournament with a perfect record and lifting the first ever Alanya Beach Soccer Cup. Alanya Belediye Spor finished fourth.

The first edition of the Alanya Beach Soccer Cup was a definite success beach soccer of the highest level on show, and hopefully a spectacle that will be repeated for years to come.

For many years, Turkey, and the Turkish beach soccer family, have been looking forward to hosting a top-class, international beach soccer event, and their chance has finally arrived. After the Alanya Beach Soccer Cup, the country has proved that they are ready to go one step further.

Stay tuned, because you might be hearing more about Alanya in the coming weeks...

46 - INSIDE BEACH SOCCER

“It was the first time I could not argue with a referee”

SADAGAT AND FREDERIC HERINCKX

WHAT BEACH SOCCER HAS UNITED… LET NO ONE PUT ASUNDER!

W

e have always said that beach soccer is like a big family. But in certain cases this phrase takes on a much more literal meaning, and provides us with some heart-warming stories…

In many ways this is your typical kind of boy-meets-girl story, but in more ways it’s a tale you just couldn’t write. That of Frederic and Sadagat is more of a “beach-soccer-player-meetsbeach-soccer-referee-on-a-beach-soccer-pitch” kind of tale.

Stop us if you’ve heard this one before.

This year, at the Euro Winners Cup held in Nazaré, Frederic Herinckx and Sadagat Valiyeva were celebrating that they had met each other, precisely, one year earlier, in that very place, at the very same event. Except that this year, they were returning to Nazaré as husband and wife.

Sadagat Valiyeva, now Sadagat Herinckx, has been a FIFA Beach Soccer referee for the past four years. Since the moment she got into the sport, refereeing the Azerbaijan National Beach Soccer League in her home city of Baku, she was immediately hooked. In June 2018, she took part in her third Euro Winners Cup, after having refereed in many other international events.

In turn, Frederick Herinckx, from Belgium, a former professional footballer, had been playing beach soccer for the past ten years, taking part in three different Euro Winners Cups with LBS Dunkerquois and LBS de Panne.

Actually, despite both playing a part in the same Euro Winners Cup (2016), destiny decided that was not the moment for them to meet. “We didn’t even see each other in Catania!”, they explain.

But the Euro Winners Cup Nazaré 2017 was the moment, and it came when Sadagat refereed one of Frederic’s games, when LBS Dunkerquois took on Teplice. “I remember very well because my teammates made fun of me, saying that it was the first time in my career that I didn’t disagree with a single decision made by the referee. When I saw something I did not not agree with, I approached her, but then I saw her smile and couldn’t say anything, and walked away. We lost that game 6-4, but for the first time ever, I was not upset.”

In just a matter of minutes, he realised that he really had a thing for this girl… That referee was already stuck in his mind.

And he needed a strategy to approach her… “After the game I went up to her, and asked her for a picture. I have a very good friend who is one of the Belgian referees in the competition, Emmanuel Vocale, and I asked him for her Facebook profile. I sent her the picture, and then we began exchanging messages”, Frederic explains.

Sadagat did not know what was going on in Frederic’s mind, though… “I had no problem with the picture being taken together. I thought it was ok. A player that wants to take a picture with the referee is not that unusual. Then, two days later, I was sitting in the tribune, here, in the stadium in Nazaré, and I received a Facebook Message. I opened it, and next to me was our mutual friend, the Belgian referee, who laughed when I told him.”

“Prove that you really like me” Those were special days for Frederic and Sadagat, but, after the event, it was time to go back home, time for goodbyes.

Sadagat was going back to Baku, and Frederic was heading to Dunkirk.

“We kept talking through WhatsApp for months, but she told me that she didn’t think I was serious about us. I replied, that of

48 - INSIDE BEACH SOCCER course I was”. “Then come to Baku to prove it”, she said. “And I just jumped on a plane and went to Baku for one week”.

That was the turning point. Love definitely triumphed in Baku, and they began a true relationship at that very moment. A relationship that means a lot of travelling, with Sadagat flying many times to France, and Frederic becoming a regular Baku visitor. Things went well, and they soon introduced each other to their families.

In February, Sadagat spent a whole month in France, the maximum her Visa allowed her to): “I only planned to spend ten days there, but, I kept delaying my return, changing my flight ticket once and again, until I had no other option than to go back due to the Visa.”, she recalled. “I changed her ticket five or six times!”, he added.

In that time, apart from getting to know Frederic’s family and friends, Frederic proposed to her. And of course, he did that on the beach. “We kept joking because I told her that in France, it is not always the man that proposes to the women… But she did not agree, because there was only one possibility: the man proposing to the girl, like they do in Azerbaijan”.

“Of course I immediately said yes, because I am very very happy with him.”

“She went back to Baku with just one month to get a whole wedding ready. She had to do everything on her own, and she did an amazing job,” Frederic highlights. They got married on the 10th of May, in Baku, and that was just 15 days before the beginning of the games in Nazaré, so the Honeymoon would have to wait…

Five days after the wedding, on the 15th, Sadagat moved to France, so she had to leave her family and her job. A part from being a Women’s league referee in Azerbaijan, Sadagat is also a school teacher, teaching physical education, which she had to give up when she moved to France. Fortunately, and thanks to an agreement between the Belgian and the Azerbaijani Football Associations, she is back on the pitch, refereeing football games in Belgium during the year. Actually, it only took her two days, as on the 17th of May she had her first game in Belgium!

And three days later… off to Nazaré!

One thing they enjoy doing together is watching football on TV. “She’s perfect!”, Frederic’s friends shout. But they avoid talking about referees and refereeing when they watch games together. “It is safer for our relationship” she jokes.

“I have not said anything bad about a referee for one year!”, he replies. “Now I have another perspective on the referee’s job. Many players go too far, and now I see that better”.

In terms of recognising the other’s ability on the sand, they know very well what each others best traits are. About Frederic, Sadagat thinks that “He is very active, he covers a lot of the pitch, and tries to help everywhere. Besides that, he is good in attack, always looking to score goals, shooting from different positions, etc.”

“She is very good in making sure she is respected. She shows her personality on the pitch, and that gets the players to respect her”, Frederic explained.

Just 5000 km…

In the beginning, distance was not a problem. Well… at least the distance Frederic had in mind. “First I thought she was Italian or Portuguese, because of her appearance and this is what I told

She had one m organise the who

month to ole wedding

50 - INSIDE BEACH SOCCER

my friends. When I found out she was from Azerbaijan, I had two options: giving it up, because because of the distance, or go for it… I made the right decision”.

“Of course, my family and friends asked me if I was sure about it, because it was 5000 km.” And the same for Sadagat’s family, who actually did not know everything about her plans at first...

“In the beginning I did not tell [the family] the whole truth, because I wanted to do it gradually, and I made them believe that he was moving to Baku, not the other way around.

Everything at the same time would have been too much for them to take in at once. So I had to do it this way. But in the end, they accepted that it was my life, and that was what I needed to be happy”.

Talking to this couple, you understand what “being happy” means. During the competition, they do a great job of keeping their distance and not making their relationship obvious, as both are keen to remain professional.

But after getting to know the whole story, you start to notice very subtle exchanges of looks at the stadium, which go unnoticed by everyone else… this is something truly heartwarming to behold…

The beach soccer family is really happy for them and… What beach soccer has united… let no one put asunder!

52 - RANKING

NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS BSWW OVERALL WORLD

RANKING

Their inspired campaign in Alghero not only made the Azzurri European Champions, but also the Movers of the Month.

54 - FUELLED

A balanced diet consists of 50% carbohydrates, 30% fats and 20% protein

DOES A VEGETARIAN DIET WORK FOR ELITE ATHLETES?

BY LELE VILLAR, BEACH SOCCER PLAYER AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION STUDENT.

By Lele Villar Beach soccer player and Physical Education student

D

oubts have always been raised regarding the capacity a vegetarian diet has in properly providing an athlete with all of the nutrition that they need.

However, the truth is that this kind of diet gives your body everything required for perfect performance, both on and off the pitch. So, any athlete, beach soccer player, gymnast, runner, etc. should know that a vegetarian diet is always a good option.

I made the decision to become vegetarian some years ago now, and I personally did it because I did not like how things worked in the meat industry. I have always tried to lead a healthy lifestyle, based on sports practice and healthy nutrition, and I immediately became interested in what turning to vegetarianism could give me.

The worst problem about being vegetarian is not how to make things work, but precisely, all the myths and rumours surrounding it. When you say you are a vegetarian, everybody thinks that you barely eat, and wonder where your protein comes from.

This is another big problem many people seem to identify with a vegetarian diet, but it is very important to have one thing in mind: You can find all the elements you need for balanced nutrition in many different kinds of foods.

We just need to diversify what we eat, including whole cereals, legumes, fruit and vegetables. These foods are great sources of carbohydrates, beneficial fats and protein, besides, of course, providing vitamins and minerals which are essential for our body.

Actually, when your diet does not include meat or fish, you need to become more imaginative, and find new flavours. A vegetarian still has lots of options available to them.

The first step is, always make sure your diet is not short of a varied source of carbohydrates such as rice, pasta, yuca, potatoes, bananas, bread, oats, granola, etc. We need to remember that carbohydrates are our main fuel, the energy we need to keep our body working. An example of a very complete meal would be rice with kidney beans.

A correct balance would include 50% carbohydrates, 30% beneficial fats and 20% protein.

Our main sources of protein, on the other hand, should generally be made up of two groups: legumes and whole cereals, such as peas, chickpeas, lentils, beans, quinoa, and dried fruits and nuts.

The other group is especially interesting for between mealtimes, consisting of fruit, as they help assimilate the fibre in the fruit more efficiently. The dried fruits containing vegetable oils, include: almonds, chestnuts, nuts, cashews, Brazil nuts, pistachios, peanuts, etc.

Dark green vegetables, in turn, are a great source of iron, to which we need to add Vitamin C, with orange, lemon, lime, etc. to ensure the best absorption of those nutrients.

Actually, fruits are also a very necessary part of the vegetarian diet. Alongside their refreshing and hydrating capacities, they also offer essential doses of carbohydrates, vitamins, fibre, minerals, and even fats.

It is worth highlighting the liquid composition of most of them, with fruits such as watermelons and strawberries being made up of up to 92% water. They are also rich in antioxidant nutrients, which help us fight the so-called free radicals, responsible for the natural deterioration of our body over time. In other words, they help us combat ageing, and everything that comes with it.

Many scientific studies support the efficiency and numerous benefits of a vegetarian diet. Meanwhile, the main inconvenience of this kind of diet is the deficit of B12 Vitamin, which can be easily replaced through different supplements and capsules. Each body reacts differently in terms of the absorption of these supplements, so it is important to check our specific needs and doses with a nutritionist or doctor.

In conclusion, a vegetarian diet is a fun, colourful diet, which helps you feel peaceful, connected to the world and which, contrary to some beliefs, provides your body with everything you need to lead a healthy life, for athletes and non-athletes alike.

56 - SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIAL

TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PROFILES AS ATHLETES

C

onsidering how much time we all spend on social media nowadays, we thought it would be interesting for you to learn how to make your social media profiles look as professional as possible with just a few steps. As Instagram is

the most trendy and marketable social platform for athletes and sportspeople all around the world, we will start this series of articles with a few quick and easy tips to improve your IG profile.

Here are our recommendations:

58 - SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIAL

60 - SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIAL

62 THE ARCHIVES 62-FROM - SOCIAL MEDIA ADVICE

SYRACUSE, 1997

Daniele Massaro, Francesco Coco, Ibrahim Ba and other AC Milan internationals took part in a beach soccer exhibition during the EBSL Siracusa stage.

64 - FAN PICS

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YOU ARE OUR BEST PHOTOGRAPHERS!

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You don’t have to be a pro to pull off their moves...

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Scan this code to check out our Instagram @beachsoccerworldwide

Make your own game... In your own space.

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66 -

DONA (ESP) Spanish Iron Is to be found under La Roja´s nº1 Jersey...

MELANIA DEL PINO (ESP)

It is hard to imagine finding time to dance and train when you study something like Anatomical Pathology and Cytology Diagnosis‌ But Melania, from the Canary Islands, proves that it is possible.

68 - COMING UP

DEC 8TH - 14TH

DEC 12TH - 16TH

CAF AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS EGYPT 2018

MUNDIALITO DE CLUBES 2018

T

he Egyptian resort of Sharm El Sheikh, on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, will host the third edition of the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, between the 8th and the 14th of December.

By the red sea, eight teams will struggle in pursuit of a double goal: being the kings of the African continent and, at the same time, securing one of the two available

berths for CAF teams in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2019.

Holders Senegal, finalists Nigeria and hosts Egypt had their place in the African showdown already secured, whilst 2015 champions Madagascar, Cote d’Ivoire, Libya, Morocco and Tanzania had to earn their right in the qualifying stages, held during over last few months.

The competition will see the eight teams drawn into two groups of four. The best four teams will progress to the semi-finals, and only the finalists will get their tickets to the coming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2019.

A

gain this December, eight top-class beach soccer clubs will fly to Brazil to take part in one of the most prestigious competitions in the calendar: The Mundialito de Clubes.

Between the 12th and 16th of December, the beautiful Maresias (São Sebastião - São Paulo state) will host the competition, featuring, as always, some of the biggest guns in the beach soccer global panorama.

he Mundialito de Clubes Beach Soccer has been taking place since 2011, whe Vasco da Gama seized the first crown.

Since then, the clubs showdown has become a regular highlight of the yearly beach soccer international calendar, with great teams such as FC Barcelona, AC Milan, Corinthians, Sporting Clube de Portugal, Al Ahly, Boca Juniors, CA Peñarol, Flamengo, Palmeiras, Santos, or Al Ahly, amongst others, taking part in it.

The competition will again close the international year the way all beach soccer fans love to: with tons of action and the best players in the world.