UEFA Futsal EURO 2026: Baltic Brilliance and Historic Upsets Mark Opening Days

Historic wins for Latvia and Armenia, late drama in Kaunas, and a tactical stalemate in Riga set the tone for an electrifying start to Europe’s premier futsal tournament.

The UEFA Futsal EURO 2026 has exploded into life with drama, goals, and history across its first three days. From Riga to Kaunas, fans have witnessed tactical battles, debut triumphs, and late heartbreak. Here’s how the opening fixtures unfolded.

(Main image: Zalgirio arena, source of the image – Andris Utinans)

Croatia and France Share the Spoils in Tactical Thriller

The tournament curtain-raiser at Arena Riga saw Croatia and France play out a gripping 2–2 draw. France struck first through Mamadou Touré and Ouassini Guirio, but Croatia hit back with a brace from Duje Kustura to snatch a point.

“We analysed France thoroughly; they were favourites, but we showed resilience and character,” said Croatia boss Marinko Mavrović.
French coach Raphaël Reynaud admitted: “We need to be stronger defensively. Our unpredictability is a strength, but solidity is key.”

Croatian media hailed their side’s “never-say-die attitude,” while French outlets lamented “missed chances and defensive frailties.” Both teams remain firmly in contention in Group A.

Latvia Light Up Riga with Historic Win

If the opener was tense, the second match was pure celebration. Co-hosts Latvia stunned Georgia with a commanding 4–0 victory, sending the home crowd into raptures. Germans Matjušenko opened the scoring before Edgars Tarakanovs bagged a brace, and Andrejs Baklanovs sealed the rout.

“The atmosphere was incredible. I told my players to ‘be stupid’, to play with joy and freedom. They delivered,” said Latvia coach Massimiliano Bellarte.
Tarakanovs added: “Two goals and a historic win, it’s hard to describe the feeling.”

Latvian press called it “a landmark moment for Baltic futsal,” while Georgian media lamented missed chances and praised goalkeeper Rainers Mūrnieks for his heroics.

Armenia Make History with Shock Win Over Ukraine

Kaunas witnessed a seismic moment as debutants Armenia edged Ukraine 2–1. Mihran Dermenjyan was the hero, scoring twice, including a late flicked finish, after Ukraine’s Vladyslav Pervieiev had opened the scoring.

“We executed our plan perfectly. This win is for every Armenian futsal fan,” said Armenia coach Ruben Nazaretyan.
Dermenjyan, emotional after the match: “It’s a dream come true. Our journey has just begun.”

Armenian media erupted with headlines like “Historic Breakthrough,” while Ukrainian outlets urged calm and called for “urgent regrouping” ahead of their next clash.

Lithuania and Czechia Serve Up Six-Goal Thriller

The Baltic party continued as Lithuania and Czechia battled to a 3–3 draw in a rollercoaster contest. Lithuania looked set for victory until Czechia equalised in the dying seconds. Michal Seidler and David Drozd starred for the visitors, while Baranauskas’ volley was a goal-of-the-round contender.

Kaunas, Lithuania – source: UEFA

“We played with heart. The fans gave us energy, but we must learn to close games,” said Lithuania coach Dentinho.
Czech boss Marek Kopecký praised his side’s grit: “We fought until the end. This point could be crucial.”

Lithuanian media lauded their team’s “courage and attacking flair,” while Czech outlets celebrated their “never-say-die spirit.”

The Verdict

Four games, 20 goals, and two historic wins, UEFA Futsal EURO 2026 has delivered a blockbuster opening. Latvia and Armenia’s dream starts, Croatia and France’s tactical duel, and Lithuania’s late heartbreak have set the stage for an enthralling group phase. Next up? Defending champions Portugal face Italy in a clash that promises fireworks.

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Futsal Focus is a supporter of Dáithí Mac Gabhann and his family’s campaign to raise awareness of Organ Donation. We encourage our readers to learn more about Organ Donation: https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/

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