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Monday, July 28, 2008

Beach Soccer : Brazil retain world title

Brazil retained their world beach soccer title with a 5-3 win over Italy in Marseille, France.

Brazil won the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in 2006 and 2007, both on the home sand of the famous Copacabana beach but were made to work harder this time around and Italy, Spain and Portugal attempted to close the gap.

The bronze medal went to Portugal who edged an close match duel with Spain 5-4 thanks to a hatrick of goals from Madjer (3), to return home with their heads held high.

Beach soccer tends to individual skills - and not surprisingly there were several awards made on the final day.

adidas Golden, Silver and Bronze Balls (Best Player)
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adidas Golden Ball : Amarelle (ESP)
adidas Silver Ball : Benjamin (BRA)
adidas Bronze Ball : Belchior (POR)

adidas Golden, Silver and Bronze Shoes (Top Scorers)
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adidas Golden Shoe: Madjer (POR) 13 goals
adidas Silver Shoe: Amarelle (ESP)
adidas Bronze Shoe: Belchior (POR)

adidas Golden Glove (Best Keeper)
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Many goalkeepers shone during Marseille 2008 but according to members of the media, it was Spain's Roberto Valeiro, who pocketed the maiden adidas Golden Glove.

So Brazil's reign continues ... and they will be hoping to re-establish their dominance in Dubai next year, although they will have to do so without Junior Negao, who retired from the sport today with the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in his hands.

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