The Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan is facing intense scrutiny as FIFA confirms it is investigating allegations of match manipulation during a Group F clash between France and Iran. The match, which ended in a 4-1 victory for Iran, has raised suspicions of collusion, prompting formal complaints from multiple teams, including Libya, Paraguay, and Thailand.
Concerns centered around the perceived lack of competitiveness, particularly in the first half, where both teams displayed passive attitudes. Iran’s first goal, scored by Salar Aghapour, was deemed highly unusual, as France’s goalkeeper, Thibaut Garros, appeared to offer little resistance to what was seen as an easily preventable shot.
The outcome of the match benefited Iran, placing them at the top of the group and allowing them to avoid a challenging match against tournament favorites Brazil. Instead, Iran will face Morocco in the round of 16, while France will take on Thailand, a potentially easier matchup.
FIFA has acknowledged the complaints filed by several federations and is working to preserve the integrity of the tournament as decisive knockout matches loom. The controversy has sparked widespread debate and placed all qualified teams under close scrutiny ahead of the next phase of the competition.
