Semi‑Finals Set for Euro Beach Soccer League Division B
The quarter‑final round of the Euro Beach Soccer League Division B delivered a cascade of drama, with three matches decided in the final minutes and a fourth that went to extra time. The outcomes have now locked in the last four teams that will contest the semi‑finals, promising a fresh slate of high‑stakes encounters.
Georgia entered its match against Malta aware that a single goal could seal the final semi‑final berth. The opening period unfolded as a tactical stalemate, with both sides cautious in the sand. The deadlock was broken when Kurdadze slipped past the Maltese defence to open the scoring, and Lomidze doubled the lead before the interval, putting Georgia in a commanding position.
Malta refused to surrender, and Bray struck in the third period to reduce the deficit, but the Georgian side held firm to secure a 2‑1 victory. The win not only crowned Georgia as the last qualifier but also underscored the narrow margins that define beach soccer at this level.
In a separate quarter‑final, Slovakia and England produced a seesaw battle that swung back and forth across three periods. England drew first blood through Hulme, but Slovakia answered with goals from Turoň and Šmálik to lead 2‑1 at the end of the first period. The lead shifted again when England’s Robinson converted an own‑goal mishap to make it 3‑2, only for Friery to level the scores in the third period and force extra time.
The extra‑time period produced the decisive moment as Hrnčiar struck the winning goal, handing Slovakia a 4‑3 triumph. The match highlighted the resilience of both squads and the unpredictable nature of sudden‑death scenarios.
Latvia’s encounter with Azerbaijan was equally tightly fought. Grīslis opened the scoring in the first period, but Orkhan equalised for Azerbaijan in the second. Ģēgers then restored Latvia’s advantage, and Sakne added a crucial third goal in the final period. Despite Orkhan’s second‑half strike, Latvia’s 3‑2 victory secured their place in the semi‑finals.
Semi‑Final Line‑up Confirmed
With Norway already assured of a semi‑final spot, the final quartet now comprises Norway, Azerbaijan, Latvia and Georgia. The upcoming fixtures will see these teams battle for a place in the championship match, promising a blend of tactical precision and athletic brilliance.