Afghanistan’s national futsal team claimed third place at the 2025 four-nation Intercontinental Futsal Cup in Brazil, defeating Greenland 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout on Sunday.
Goalkeeper Mohammad Jawad Safari emerged as the hero of the playoff, scoring a stunning late equalizer to send the match to penalties before making decisive saves in the shootout to secure the bronze medal.
The tense match remained goalless at halftime. Afghanistan struck first in the second half, but Greenland responded with two quick goals to take the lead. In the closing minutes, Safari substituted into the field as an outfield player, delivering a powerful shot to level the score and keep Afghanistan’s hopes alive.
In the penalty shootout, Afghanistan converted four kicks to Greenland’s two, with Safari’s continued heroics ensuring victory and a podium finish.
Earlier in the tournament’s group stage, Afghanistan defeated Greenland 5-4 on March 7 but suffered defeats to hosts Brazil (4-1) and Iran (4-3). Brazil went on to win the championship, with Iran finishing as runners-up.
The result marks a significant achievement for Afghanistan’s futsal program, highlighting the team’s growing competitiveness on the international stage.
