After a relentless battle, the Solomon Islands Kurukuru were defeated 7-3 against Copa America champions Argentina in their second match of the FIFA Futsal World Cup.

OFC Futsal Development Officer Paul Toohey was in the stadium watching the match live, and was blown away by the skill and determination shown by the Kurukuru.

“Solomon Islands were fantastic tonight, against one of the most respected football and futsal countries in the world,” he said.

“It was an incredible effort, everyone in Oceania should be very proud,” he added.

Despite the high score line, the Kurukuru gave the 6th world ranked side a good run for their money, countering Argentina’s early goal with an equaliser from Jeffrey Bule in the first ten minutes of the game.

The Kurukuru played in true Solomon style, adventurous on the counter and slick in the pass. The class of the Argentinian side earned them the win but the energy of the Solomon players was tough for them to handle.

Elliot Ragomo’s free-kick lifted the team after the break but the true ability of the Argentinian side began to tell as the game wore and their lead was secured.

Solomon Islands only hope of continuing their World Cup dream will be if they beat Kazakhstan in their final group play match on Sunday.

For more on Solomon Islands football visit www.siff.com.sb.