Beach Soccer World Cup: Mendes fears tough semis

After beginning their FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2008 qualifying campaign in similar fashion to last year, UAE will be hoping the pattern doesn’t end there.

Coach Marcelo Mendes’ team demolished Uzbekistan 6-2 at Jumeirah Beach Park in their opener, the margin by which they also hammered India at the same stage nine months ago. UAE ended up winning that tournament and headed on to Rio de Janeiro for the World Cup Finals. But Mendes is not one to get swept away. "The first step is qualifying for the World Cup. If we reach the final and win again, very good, but qualifying is our main goal," said Mendes shortly after his team’s dominant display against Uzbekistan.

He was also keen to shrug off the favourites’ tag and said: "We are not favourites. I would put us among four favourites as Japan, China and Iran are all good teams. Believe me, the semi-finals will be very tough."

A Brazilian by nationality, Mendes’ philosophy on football is quite the opposite to the flamboyant style in which the South American nation prides itself in playing the "beautiful game".

"I really don’t want to put on a show. We really need to win. If we play well and win by six or seven, good. But if we win 4-3 like last year’s final, khalaas, we win.

"This is more important for us than putting on a show. We are not a show team. The show happens during the break.

"The girls and the guy controlling the ball, ask them if you want to see a show," he said, referring to pro-sports dance team Scottish Rockettes and freestyle footballer John Farnworth.

"We are here to play and win, the score is not important."

Japan seemed eager to stake their claim as the tournament’s entertainers as their 8-2 romp over Philippines was highlighted by oodles of trickery and skill.

Shusei Yamauchi led the way with five goals but it was captain Katsuhiro Yoshii who enthralled fans, attempting spectacular overhead kicks at the slightest opportunity.

Sand box

What is it?

The Fifa Beach Soccer World Cup 2008 Qualifiers, Dubai

Where is it being played?

Jumeirah Beach Park

Who’s playing?

Group A: UAE, China, Uzbekistan

Group B: Japan, Iran, Philippines

How much does it cost?

Free, gates open at 7pm