It is three years since FIFA World Cup™ fever last gripped the Russian capital Moscow, as France beat Croatia 4-2 to lift football's most prestigious prize at the Luzhniki Stadium. That venue is now set to host another World Cup, or rather oversee one. Just a few metres away, a whole new arena – with a 4,500 capacity – has been erected over the past few weeks to house the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Russia 2021™, which starts on Thursday.

Sixteen teams will be battling it out in four groups and looking to make it through to the quarter-finals, with only the top two from each section progressing. Hosts Russia will be kicking the tournament off against USA in Group A. Reigning champions Portugal will launch their title defence in Group D on Friday against Oman, while Brazil, who have the most titles at this tournament, will face Switzerland in their first Group C match.

A total of 192 players from 16 countries will be taking part in the 11th edition of the tournament.

A firebird by the name of Zharishka™ is the official mascot of this year’s Beach Soccer World Cup. In a tribute to Slavic mythology, Zharishka embodies all the attributes of the legendary creature, including strength and stamina, as well as typifying the fun and energy to be found in the sport. Zharishka is the first official mascot in the history of this, the most prestigious of global beach soccer events.

Tickets can be ordered HERE.