Dates set for Brazilian futsal feast
Friday, February 8, 2008
Article summary
Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia will stage matches in the 2008 FIFA Futsal World Cup between 30 September and 19 October, with the draw taking place on 6 July.
Article body
The cities of Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia will stage matches in the 2008 FIFA Futsal World Cup between 30 September and 19 October, with the draw taking place in the Brazilian capital on 6 July.
Expanded tournament
The tournament is beginning a week earlier than previously announced because of its expansion to 20 finalists, including an extra European contender. Some 38 UEFA member associations will start competing for the six finals berths on offer from 28 February.
Growing sport
FIFA President Joseph S Blatter said: "This year we will have 20 teams in the FIFA Futsal World Cup for the first time, a clear sign of the increasing popularity of this sport, and we will also have prize money for the first time." FIFA also announced that the last two UEFA European Futsal Championship hosts, Czech Republic and Portugal, are among six bidders to stage the 2012 World Cup – up against the French territory of New Caledonia, Egypt, Iran and Thailand.