April 5, 2025- The stage is set for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025™ following the official tournament draw and the release of the match schedule. The tournament, which will take place at the Paradise Arena from 1 to 11 May 2025, marks a historic moment for Seychelles as it becomes the first African nation to host a senior FIFA competition. The draw, conducted by FIFA Head of Olympics, Futsal, and Beach Soccer Kasra Haghighi, was assisted by former Chelsea and Seychelles defender Michael Mancienne and Nigerian football legend Sunday Oliseh.
The opening match on 1 May will see Guatemala take on Japan in Group A, followed by Mauritania versus IR Iran in Group B. The evening matches will feature hosts Seychelles making their debut against Belarus, while Portugal go head-to-head with Paraguay.
Group Stage Line-Up
Group A: Seychelles, Belarus, Guatemala, Japan
Group B: Mauritania, IR Iran, Portugal, Paraguay
Group C: Spain, Senegal, Chile, Tahiti
Group D: Brazil, El Salvador, Italy, Oman
Group D is considered one of the toughest, featuring defending champions Brazil and 2021 finalists Italy, alongside experienced sides El Salvador and Oman. Group C is another highly competitive pool with three teams ranked among the world’s top 12 Spain, Senegal, and Tahiti joined by Chile. Meanwhile, hosts Seychelles find themselves in a more balanced Group A with debutants Guatemala, experienced Japan, and European contenders Belarus.
As excitement builds toward kick-off, the tournament promises high-energy matches, stunning beachside action, and a celebration of global beach soccer talent in the scenic setting of Seychelles.
