MIAMI, Florida – The 2021 FIFA Futsal World Cup began for the United States with an 11-0 defeat to reigning world champions Argentina in Group F on Tuesday at the Avia Solutions Group Arena in Vilnius.
It was a frustrating start for the U.S., who were down 5-0 after the first seven minutes and were unable to break through a resolute Argentina defense in either half.
The U.S. will aim to bounce back when they face Iran on Friday.
Both Costa Rica and Guatemala return to action in their respective groups on Wednesday.
Costa Rica succumbed 6-1 to Lithuania in their opener, but a new opportunity for three important points in Group A awaits against Venezuela at the Zalgiris Arena in Kaunas.
It will be the first Futsal World Cup meeting between the two nations.
Guatemala are hoping to ride the momentum of their dramatic, last-second 5-4 opening triumph over Uzbekistan into another three points in Group B against Egypt at the Avia Solutions Group Arena in Vilnius.
Alan Aguilar and Marvin Sandoval led the way for the Chapines in the win against Uzbekistan with a brace each, and now both will seek to add to their goal totals against the Pharaohs.
Wednesday’s match marks the second ever Futsal World Cup meeting between the two sides, with Guatemala winning a 1-0 group stage affair during the 2008 tournament.
