Futsal Euro 2026: Armenia Makes History as Spain and Portugal Punch Quarter-Final Tickets
The group stages of the UEFA Futsal Euro 2026 are reaching a fever pitch across Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovenia. As the tournament enters the final day of group play today, the knockout bracket is already taking shape with historic milestones and dominant displays from the tournament favorites.
Armenia: The Cinderella Story of 2026
The biggest story of the tournament so far is undoubtedly Armenia. Making their debut appearance in a UEFA Futsal Championship, the Armenians have shocked the continent by securing their place in the Quarter-Finals with a game to spare.
Led by the clinical Mihran Dermenjyan, who netted a historic brace in their opening 2–1 win over world-power Ukraine, Armenia proved their arrival wasn’t a fluke by following up with a dominant win over the Czech Republic. They enter the knockout stage as Group B winners, setting up a dream quarter-final clash in Kaunas.
The Giants Stand Tall: Spain and Portugal Advance
While Armenia provides the drama, the traditional powerhouses are providing the masterclass.
- Spain: The seven-time champions have looked untouchable in Group C. Following a 2–0 victory over Belarus, La Roja has officially qualified for the next round. Their tactical discipline and depth make them the heavy favorites to reach the final in Ljubljana.
- Portugal: The defending champions are on a mission for a “three-peat.” After dismantling Italy 6–2 in a statement win, Portugal has secured the top spot in Group D.
Group Stage Deciders: What’s Left to Play For?
As of this morning, January 29, several high-stakes matches remain to decide the final Quarter-Final spots:
- Group A Drama: Co-hosts Latvia face a monumental task against Croatia at Arena Riga. A win or draw for France against Georgia will see the French through, leaving the final spot to be contested between the Latvians and Croatians.
- Group C Battle: While Spain is through, Slovenia and Belgium are locked in a fight for the second spot. Slovenia holds the home-court advantage at Arena Stožice and needs only a result against Belarus to advance.
The Road to the Final
The Quarter-Finals are set to begin on January 31 and February 1, moving the action toward the final stages in Slovenia.
- Semi-Finals: February 4
- Third-Place & Final: February 7 at Arena Stožice, Ljubljana.
With the level of play seen in the opening week, the 2026 edition is already being hailed as the most competitive Futsal Euro in history.
