Afghanistan’s national futsal team produced a determined and entertaining performance in their third match of the Continental Cup, holding Russia to a 3-3 draw.
Kabul 24: The game kicked off at 3:30 p.m. local time on Wednesday, 14 Asad, in Thailand and concluded just moments ago after a dramatic contest that showcased both sides’ attacking intent.
Russia took the lead in the seventh minute with a well-worked goal that put the more experienced side ahead early. Afghanistan responded almost immediately. Just one minute later, Akbar Kazemi leveled the score with a precise finish, restoring parity and lifting the team’s confidence.
The first half ended 1-1, reflecting a competitive and evenly matched opening period.The second half continued in the same open style.
Russia regained the lead with their second goal, briefly putting Afghanistan under pressure. Rather than fading, the Afghan players raised their intensity.
They struck twice in succession to turn the score in their favor and take a temporary lead. These goals highlighted improved coordination and fighting spirit compared with the team’s earlier outings in the tournament.
In the closing stages, however, Russia found an equalizer to make the final score 3-3. The late goal denied Afghanistan a victory but could not erase the positive impression left by the performance.
With this result, Afghanistan earned their first point of the competition, while Russia moved to five points.
The draw marks a clear step forward for the Afghan side. In their previous two matches they had suffered heavy defeats, losing 6-1 to Thailand and 2-1 to Vietnam.
Against Russia they showed greater defensive resilience and clinical finishing at key moments, suggesting the team is settling into the tournament and learning from earlier setbacks.
Although only one point was secured, the match offered encouragement for the remaining fixtures. Afghanistan’s players demonstrated the ability to compete with a strong opponent and recover from deficits.
The coaching staff will now review the performance carefully, identifying both the strengths that produced two comebacks and the areas that still require tightening to convert such displays into victories.
Supporters of Afghan futsal can take pride in the team’s commitment and spirit. The 3-3 result against Russia provides a foundation on which to build as the Continental Cup continues.
