NOVO HAMBURGO AND SOGIPA WIN MAJOR TOURNAMENT IN WIDNAU

From 11 to 13 August, the 64th international Grenzland tournament took place in Widnau (CH).In the categories men’s elite, A, B and seniors, women’s A and B as well as in numerous junior categories, 110 teams from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Brazil and Belgium competed for the victories.The annual border tournament opened with an international match between the men’s national teams from Switzerland and Austria.After 6 exciting sets, Austria won this international match.In preparation for the Women’s European Championship from 18-19 August in Grieskirchen (AUT), a women’s international match also took place on Saturday evening. In the end, after a balanced performance, the Swiss national team won 4:1 against the Austrians.

Elite Tournament Men; Day 1

Saturday morning it was showtime for the men’s teams (Elite, A, B and Seniors). In hot temperatures, the first round of the Elite Tournament started. After the first day of play and the group matches of the preliminary round, the top 3 from each of the four groups of 6 qualified for the final round on Sunday. The fourth to sixth-placed teams continued in the “Wasi Cup” on Sunday.

Day 2

12 teams now competed in the final round for a place in the semi-finals/finals. In the first semi-final, the teams from Novo Hamburgo (BRA) and Freistadt (AUT) faced each other. The Brazilians won this semi-final with a clear 2:0 and thus entered the final. The second semi-final was a little closer. The teams from Vöcklabruck (AUT) and Pfungstadt (GER) had an exciting head-to-head race, with the better end for the Tigers from Vöcklabruck.

The final was Vöcklabruck against Novo Hamburgo. Both teams started very strongly in this final and offered the numerous spectators spectacular rallies and moves. Despite set point for Vöcklabruck, the boys from Novo Hamburgo won the first set 12:10. In the second set, the Brazilians were ahead from the start. With a clear 4:11 the deciding set and thus also the victory of the 64th International Borderland Tournament went to the team from Novo Hamburgo. The victory in the Wasi Cup went to the team from Neuendorf (GER), followed by Kremsmünster (AUT) and Widnau. (CH)

After this Major tournament, the cards were also reshuffled in the IFA World Tour Ranking. Novo Hamburgo remains clearly in first place for the time being. Vöcklabruck and Club Merces (BRA) are behind them. UFG Grieskirchen Pötting (AUT) moved up to 4th place after the tournament and the team from Enns (AUT) also made it into the Top 10.

Women’s Tournament 

The women’s competition also started on Sunday. In the A tournament, 12 teams from Switzerland, Austria, Brazil and Germany fought for victory. The Austrian national team of the women and the U21 were also represented. The preliminary round was played in 2 groups of 6 teams each. After the group matches, the first and second placed teams of each group qualified for the semi-finals.

In the first semi-final, the women from Sogipa (BRA) met the women from Kreuzlingen (CH). They finally had to admit defeat to the Brazilians. Sogipa managed to enter the final, as they had done in Jona (CH). After winning the semi-final against the team from Diepoldsau (CH), Dennach also qualified for the final.

In bright sunshine, the two teams from Dennach (GER) and Sogipa then started the final at 14:30. Dennach started very well in the first set and was able to take a good lead at the beginning. The Brazilians, however, did not let the deficit worry them and took the lead from halfway through the first set and won it. The Sogipa women took the momentum from set one into the second set. After strong attacks and defensive actions by both teams and good rallies, Dennach finally had to admit defeat with a score of 2:0. After winning the Major Tournament in Jona, Sogipa also won the second 1000-point tournament in Switzerland.

The Brazilians are now in first place in the IFA World Tour Ranking with a lead of over 1000 points.After this weekend, there have also been some changes in the women’s World Tour Ranking. With a plus of 450 points in Widnau, the young team from Elgg (CH) managed to jump to second place. Two other Swiss teams, Kreuzlingen and Diepoldsau, also moved up in the ranking after the weekend. And the ladies from Dennach are now also in 5th place in the ranking after this weekend.

DOUBLE VICTORY FOR SOGIPA

 

The Obersee Masters in Jona (CH) took place for the 58th time last weekend.

More than 60 teams from 9 different nations took part in the categories men A/B/C and women as well as in the junior competitions U10/U12 and U14/U16. In addition to the Major Tournament, another highlight took place in Jona with the U21 European Championship for Men.

Men’s Elite Tournament

Despite partly difficult weather conditions and recurring rain, especially on Sundays, the 20 teams from Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Namibia, Brazil and Argentina played spectacular matches and exciting matches. In the final, two Brazilian teams faced each other. The team from Sogipa (BRA) dominated the semi-final against the home team from Jona (CH) and the young team from Novo Hamburgo (BRA) also came out on top in the semi-final against the defending champions Diepoldsau (CH).

With a 2:0 and a thrilling comeback in the 2nd set, Sogipa finally won the final and thus the elite men’s tournament.

In the match for 3rd/4th place, Diepoldsau beat the team from Jona.

Points for the World Tour will go not only to the team from Novo Hamburgo but also to the teams from Calw, Kellinghusen, Vaihingen (DE), Grieskirchen and Enns (AUT).

Women’s tournament

In the women’s A tournament on Saturday, the teams from Germany, Austria, Brazil, Switzerland and the US played against each other.

Already in the preliminary round, the team from Sogipa (BRA) was the favourite. The Brazilians were able to enter the final undefeated. The women from Diepoldsau (CH) also qualified for the final. However, the women from Reihntal had to admit defeat with a clear 2:0 and Sogipa could win the women’s tournament of the Obersee Masters again after 13 years.

There was a purely Swiss duel in the match for 3rd and 4th place, in which Kreuzlingen won clearly against the young team from Elgg/Ettenhausen.

 

Germany wins Women’s European Championship and secures place for Chengdu

The European Women’s Fistball Championship took place on 18th and 19th August in Grieskirchen, Upper Austria. Germany won the final against Austria 3:0 and defended its title from 2019. Furthermore, Germany secured with the victory its place for The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China.

Teams from eight European Fistball nations competed for the prestigious European Championship title on 18 August (preliminary round) and 19 August (final day) at the Grieskirchen Fistball Centre.
The Austrian selection had to face the title holder from Germany as well as the teams from Serbia and Switzerland in their preliminary round group. In the second preliminary group, Italy, Belgium, Denmark and Poland fought for a good starting position for the quarter-final round on the following day. The fact that it once again came down to a “dream final” between the red-white-red aces and their neighbours from Germany was to be expected in view of the performances in the preliminary round.

The hosts immediately found their way into the match at the beginning of the first set and were able to challenge the title holder. However, the Austrians did not manage to win the first set. In the second set, Austria took a 3:0 lead, but after a German timeout, Germany came back into the game and started to catch up. In a thrilling duel for this set, the Austrian team failed to convert four set points. Thus, Germany also won the second set by an extremely narrow margin of 14:12. Svenja Schröder, who was also voted “Woman of the Match”, scored constantly on the right side. After the second set, Austria again showed a lot of fighting spirit and tried to turn the match around. Germany did not let Austria get back into the match, remaining unbeaten in every final of a major event since 2013 and crowning themselves European champions once again.

Switzerland beats Serbia in Bronze Medal Match

The bronze medal was won by the Swiss national team with a convincing victory over Serbia. Despite the disappointing defeat in the semi-final against Austria, the Swiss women found their motivation again and went into the match with determination. Although the Serbians held their own in the beginning, Switzerland won the first set with a convincing 11:4, also due to several service errors on the part of the Serbians.
In the second set, Serbia tried to get back into the game with a lot of risk. Nevertheless, the Swiss national team showed concentration and secured this set clearly.
Serbia then failed to find its way back into the match, while the Swiss women retained the upper hand and were able to celebrate their bronze medal.

In the match for 5th place, Denmark and Poland dueled. The first set was even, exciting and hard-fought. It was not until extra time that Denmark won the set 15:14.
Due to a medical incident that led to a substitution in the Danish team, they were not able to continue their performance from the previous set. The Polish team took advantage of this opportunity and won the match clearly.
Belgium secured the seventh place. The exhausting match with long rallies between Belgium and Italy was very even for a long time, but finally the Belgians won 3:2. The young Italians put up a good fight but were not rewarded for their tireless efforts and finished the European Championships in 8th place.

Final results:
1. Germany
2. Austria
3. Switzerland
4. Serbia
5. Poland
6. Denmark
7. Belgium
8. Italy

It’s 2 years to go to The World Games 2025!

Did you know that already the first Fistball players qualified at IFA 2023 Fistball Men’s World Championship in Mannheim to compete in Chengdu?

4 out of 8 teams are already qualified: Germany, Austria, Brazil and Switzerland!

IFA World Games selection and qualification criteria

The qualification mode, which was already decided in 2018, first provides for a qualification of the continental champions, provided that at least 3 teams participate in this continental championship. If we assume three continental championships as well as a host starting place for China, currently only the TOP 4 teams of the World Championships are definitely qualified for the World Games.

If the continental champion e.g. for Europe comes from these TOP 4, place 5 moves up. If Brazil wins the South American Championship, place 6 moves up and so on.

This procedure was chosen in order to have representatives from at least three continents at the World Games.

#RoadtoChengdu #WeareTheWorldGames #TWG2025

IFA Board of Directors re-elected at IFA 2023 Congress

The IFA Board of Directors was re-elected at the IFA 2023 Congress on the sidelines of the 16th IFA Men’s Fistball World Championship in Mannheim. The World Championship has set new standards. Germany won the World Championship title for the fourth time in a row.

The 51-year-old President Jörn Verleger from Germany, who has lead the world federation since 2019, was unanimously re-elected together with his the Board of Directors. Vice-President is Dr. Giana Hexsel from Brazil, Secretary General Christoph Oberlehner from Austria, Treasurer Franz Peter Iten from Switzerland and Chairman of the Sports Commission Gastao Englert from Brazil. The 11-member presidium now includes eight nationalities. Around a third of the positions are held by women.

It was the spectacular Fistball festival that athletes and fans had been looking forward to for months. After the preliminary round matches and the quarterfinals in Mannheim’s Rhein-Neckar Stadium, the finals in the SAP Arena were the sporting and emotional highlight of this world championship. Germany as host made history. An indoor final round and on natural grass – that has never happened before.

“This was a terrific World Championship in a whole new dimension. We have all never experienced such an atmosphere,” said Verleger. “The project to move the turf to a multi-sport arena has worked out. We saw the possibilities and potential of the sport of Fistball.”

For eight days, the best 16 nations from every continent promoted their sport. More than 30,000 spectators flocked to the Rhein-Neckar Stadium during the World Championship week and to the SAP Arena on the final weekend. In front of a record crowd of 10,000 spectators, Germany celebrated its fourth consecutive World Championship title.

More than 500 volunteers were on hand to provide guests from around the world with an unforgettable event. One of the highlights off the pitch was School’s Day on the third day of the preliminary round, when 2,700 children and young people created an exuberant atmosphere.

“The arena was unique in terms of presenting our sport. This was a Fistball spectacle that the teams created together with the fans that will be remembered for a long time.”

For Verleger, who together with Secretary General Christoph Oberlehner from Austria, was one of the driving forces behind the successful World Championship project, it will be the last four-year term of office, as a change to the statutes with a maximum term of office of eight years was also adopted at the Congress on the proposal of the Board of Directors.

Germany impressively to the 13th world championship title

The new and old world champion is Germany, who impressively lived up to their role as favorites in front of their home crowd. For the record world champions, this is already the fourth title in a row, the 13th overall. The team around superstar Patrick Thomas did not give Austria a chance in the final and scored a clear 4:0 victory. “There is nothing greater than winning a World Championship at home,” said Thomas, who like captain Fabian Sagstetter celebrated his fourth World Championship triumph. “We worked hard all year for this title. We’re really happy that we made it. It was extremely fun to play here, the atmosphere was insane,” said Sagstetter happily.

IFA 2023 Fistball World Championship in Mannheim – Recap

The 16th IFA Fistball Men’s World Championship in Mannheim, Germany has set new standards and will go down in the history of fistball. For eight days, the 16 best nations from all continents promoted their sport. More than 30,000 spectators flocked to the Rhein-Neckar Stadium during the World Championship week and to the SAP Arena on the final weekend. In front of a record audience of 10,000 spectators, Germany celebrated its fourth consecutive World Championship title.

It was the spectacular fistball festival that athletes and fans had been eagerly waiting for months. After the preliminary rounds and quarterfinals at the Mannheim Rhein-Neckar Stadium, the final matches at the SAP Arena were the sporting and emotional highlight of this World Championship.

As the host, Germany made history with the final round being played both indoors and on natural grass at the same time – something that had not been done before. “This was a magnificent World Championship on a completely new scale. We have never experienced such an atmosphere,” said IFA President Jörn Verleger. “Setting up a natural turf ground inside an indoor sports arena was a historic premiere for fistball.” For the event, an additional mobile grandstand was erected at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium, providing seating for over a thousand more spectators. Several thousand visitors attended the six days of matches in the stadium, where the Preliminary Round received maximum attention. More than 500 volunteers were involved in making this event unforgettable for guests from all over the world. One of the highlights off the field was the School’s Day on the third day of the preliminary rounds with 2,700 children and teenagers creating a festive atmosphere. “We were thrilled to see so many young people excited about fistball in one morning,” said MWC-CEO Sönke Spille, who emphasized: “We experienced a spectacular World Championship week with many goosebump moments, starting at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium with a lot of fans and a fantastic atmosphere. I heard many people praising the atmosphere.” The final days at the SAP Arena were the climax of the World Championship week. “The Arena was unique in presenting our sport. Everyone who was there experienced two final days that will never be repeated. It was a fistball spectacle created together by the teams and fans, something that will be remembered for a long time,” said MWC-CEO Sönke Spille.

Germany impressively secures its 13th World Championship title
The new and reigning world champion is Germany, who lived up to their favorites’ role in front of their home crowd. This is the fourth consecutive title and the 13th overall for the record holders. The team led by the world’s best striker Patrick Thomas left no chance for Austria in the final, securing a clear 4-0 victory. “There is nothing greater than winning a World Championship at home,” said Thomas, who celebrated his fourth World Cup triumph, just like captain Fabian Sagstetter. “We have worked hard all year for this title. We are over the moon that we made it. It was extremely fun to play here – the atmosphere was absolutely incredible,” said Sagstetter.

Brazil wins a high-class bronze medal duel
History repeated itself. Four years ago, at the World Championship in Winterthur, Germany won the final against Austria. “Germany had a perfect day and is a well-deserved world champion,” emphasized coach Siegfried Simon, who is very proud of winning the silver medal. “My team played a fantastic tournament.” The Austrians qualified for the final after a high-caliber and exciting semifinal against Switzerland. Germany reached the final with a 3-0 victory against Brazil. At this World Cup, the “big four” once again dominated the tournament. The bronze medal match between Brazil and Switzerland was one of the best of this World Championship. Both teams engaged in a high-class battle, with the Brazilians coming out on top, securing the third place for the second time after 2019. Switzerland once again missed out on a medal.

USA wins the President’s Cup
With a strong performance throughout the tournament week, the USA team secured the title in the President’s Cup, the competition for teams ranked from nine to 16. Led by Todd Strassberger, the Americans defeated Namibia, the only African representative, 3-1. Chile celebrated its best result in World Championship history. Led by striker Alvaro Mödinger, the South Americans defeated Argentina and finished the tournament in fifth place for the first time, after having finished sixth in nine previous World Championships. Denmark made the biggest leap forward, improving from 12th place in Winterthur to the top ten in eighth place. A reward for the long-term development work of the Scandinavians, who play in the second highest league in Germany. The almost fairy-tale-like story of the Belgian team, which replaced India three days before the start of the tournament, ended with two wins in four games, securing 12th place.

 

Final Ranking:

  1. Germany
  2. Austria
  3. Brazil
  4. Switzerland
  5. Chile
  6. Argentina
  7. Italy
  8. Denmark
  9. USA
  10. Namibia
  11. New Zealand
  12. Belgium
  13. Czech Republic
  14. Australia
  15. Serbia
  16. Japan

All games are available Re-Live on fistball.tv

Fourth Consecutive World Championship Title: Germany Continues to Dominate the Fistball World

It is accomplished: The host team Germany defeats Austria in an exciting final with a score of 4:0 and is crowned world champion. The bronze medal goes to Brazil, while Switzerland finishes the World Cup in an unfortunate fourth place. Chile achieves its best result in a World Cup for a South American country with a historic victory against Argentina.

Germany wins the home World Championship at the SAP Arena.
Germany – Austria 4:0 (11:7, 11:3, 15:14, 11:7)

It is accomplished. The new and reigning world champion is Germany. Patrick Thomas, Fabian Sagstetter, and the team can defeat Austria in four sets and claim the fistball throne, just like in 2019, 2015, and 2011. The fans at the SAP Arena witness an exciting match, which, while the result appears clear, sees Austria compete well in three sets, with the third set even going into extra points. In the decisive moments, Germany proves dominant and clinches the crucial, long rallies. When Patrick Thomas converts the match point, all barriers break, and the entire SAP Arena celebrates the world champion Germany.

Olaf Neuenfeld (Head Coach of Germany): „I was more tense yesterday than today. Towards the end of the third set, when the score was 15:14, it was on a knife’s edge. If that set had gone to Austria, the whole game could have turned around. However, we kept our nerves, even though Karl Müllehner played outstandingly and made hardly any mistakes. After that, I had a good feeling. The World Championship title in Germany was still missing for me. This is the icing on the cake. But I predicted that I would stick around for another four years afterward. We have a very balanced squad, and we even had a larger roster last year, with which we won two tournaments. They elevate each other at this level. It’s a fantastic team, and our cohesion sets us apart.“

Fabian Sagstetter (Captain and Setter of Germany): “This is overwhelming, everything is so grand. We worked towards this for over a year, and it’s even more beautiful that we won this title. We defeated a strong opponent in Austria.“

Siegfried Simon (Head Coach of Austria): “Congratulations to the German team. Germany is a very deserving world champion. When you lose 0:4, then the matter is clear. But compliments to my team. They never gave up. We fought. However, every time we tried to score points, Germany had an answer. Germany got stronger as the game progressed and always had a response ready. We have a great team with a fantastic spirit. I hope that most of this team stays together to be prepared for the next tournaments.”

Karl Müllehner (Attacker of Austria): “The atmosphere out there was overwhelming. I congratulate Germany because every player on this team is extremely cool. But at some point, I also want to win this trophy. However, defeating Germany in a final, especially on their home turf, is indeed a monumental task.”

Brazil triumphs in the match for third place
Brazil – Switzerland 4:1 (10:12, 11:9, 14:12, 11:7, 14:12)

The first set in the bronze match of the Fistball World Championship is a hard-fought affair. Switzerland and Brazil engage in a high-class exchange of blows, with the Swiss winning in extended play. Subsequently, Brazil finds answers to the aggressive play of Raphael Schlattinger and Ueli Rebsamen in crucial moments. Bruno Arnold consistently serves with pressure and scores many points for his team. The fifth set becomes dramatic, with Brazil narrowly winning after several lead changes, securing the bronze medal for the South Americans.

Mateus Kuntzler (Brazil’s setter): “After the defeat against Germany, I am super happy that we won the match for third place today. The last set was very tight, and two or three rescue actions were crucial. Playing against Switzerland is always tough and emotional. We lost to them at the World Games. We are happy to finish in third place, just like four years ago. The atmosphere in the arena was absolutely insane.”

Raphael Schlattinger (Switzerland’s attacker): “Brazil was the favorite in this match. We gave it our all and showed some really great fistball. All sets were close, but we lacked that bit of luck. It’s incredibly disappointing.”

Chile turns an exciting match against Argentina and secures fifth place.
Argentina – Chile 1:3 (11:8, 12:14, 7:11, 9:11)

In the first match of the final day of the Fistball World Championship at the SAP Arena, the spectators are treated to a sporting spectacle. In the duel of the two South American teams, Chile and Argentina, the slightly favored Chileans manage to avenge their defeat from the group stage and secure fifth place. This is the best result Chile has ever achieved at a World Cup.

Alle Games are available Re-Live on fistball.tv

 

Recap Day 7 World Championship – Germany and Austria advance to the Gold Medal Match

The Fistball World Championship has moved to the SAP Arena. First, the USA wins the President’s Cup, finishing the championship in 9th place. Italy defeats Denmark and secures the 7th place in the final rankings. The eagerly awaited semi-finals then go in three sets to the favored teams of Germany and Austria. The teams from Brazil and Switzerland, who were defeated in the semi-finals, will compete for the bronze medal.

The President’s Cup of the Fistball World Championship goes to the USA
USA – Namibia 3:1 (11:7, 11:9, 10:12, 11:8)

The first match at the SAP Arena brings victory to the favored American team in the President’s Cup. The US team starts strongly, and Todd Strassberger impresses with his serves. In the third set, the USA seemed to have secured the win, but Namibia fought back and narrowly won 12:10 in extra points. After a change of ends, the USA regains control and rightfully celebrates their victory in the President’s Cup.

Italy wins the 7th place game
Italy – Denmark 3:1 (5:11, 9:11, 12:10, 6:11)

Italy didn’t have much time to recover from the disappointment of not making it to the 5th place game. Against Denmark, they needed four sets of concentration to achieve their minimal goal of securing 7th place. Denmark had difficulties establishing a stable defense, and the Italian attackers regularly scored points with short shots. Only when Italy substituted their top formation and gave playing time to young players did Denmark find their rhythm and capitalized on Italy’s weaker phase. However, with Runer, Prudenziati & Co. back on the field, the balance was quickly restored, and Italy won deservedly and convincingly with 3:1.

Germany secures a spot in the final without difficulty
Brazil – Germany 0:3 (9:11, 8:11, 7:11)

The highly anticipated semi-final electrifies the SAP Arena. Germany defeats the South American team from Brazil in three sets and secures a spot in the final of the home World Championship. Brazil managed to keep up with Germany’s level at times and made all sets competitive. However, in crucial moments, Germany’s experience and decisiveness proved too much. Brazil attempted different tactical formations to control Germany’s attacking game but never seriously threatened their success. After about 50 minutes, the fists of the German national team rose in celebration, and the emotions were evident on all players. Germany reaches the final of the Fistball World Championship for the fourth consecutive time.

Olaf Neuenfeld (Head Coach, Germany): “We have never experienced an atmosphere like this before. Today, I am more exhausted than my players. The result sounds clearer than it was. The sets were close, and they could have turned with just one or two points. Brazil is an extremely strong team. They tried everything, including tactical changes, but we showed the right reactions. Preparing for such a game is totally different. It’s so loud. When I stand next to Patrick, I can say something to him, but just five meters away, he can’t hear me anymore.”

Patrick Thomas (Main Attacker, Germany): “This is my fourth World Championship, but it’s incomparable to anything else. It’s an absolute highlight. We had to adapt a bit because the field was different from the preliminary round. The ball doesn’t bounce as high, so we had to apply pressure during the serves, but we managed it well. The atmosphere is absolutely amazing. When you come in here, you start to grin already. Flags are everywhere, people are in a party mood, and it’s just fun to play Fistball.”

Mateus Kuntzler (Setter, Brazil): “We played a good game, but unfortunately, it wasn’t enough. Germany was stronger. There were a few balls that decided the game in favor of Germany. But to become world champions, we have to beat Germany. Now the goal is the bronze medal. Playing in such a hall is so much fun. The atmosphere was fantastic. We thought the ball would bounce a bit more.”

Austria defeats Switzerland in three sets in the second semi-final
Switzerland – Austria 0:3 (8:11, 9:11, 8:11)

The surprise was not to be found in the second semi-final either. Austria convincingly defeats Switzerland in three sets and will compete against Germany for the gold medal on Sunday. The Swiss team fought valiantly, but in the end, they couldn’t match Austria’s team cohesion. Raphael Schlattinger and Ueli Rebsamen kept the game open with powerful attacks, but in the crucial moments, Austria, led by Karl Müllehner, scored the decisive points. Switzerland will compete for the bronze medal against Brazil, while Austria will face Germany in the pursuit of the world champion title.

Oliver Lang (Head Coach, Switzerland): “Austria deservedly advances to the final. They were two or three points better in all positions, which eventually led to their set victories. Tomorrow, we will play for the bronze medal, and we want to win it. This atmosphere in the arena is unprecedented. The fans are celebrating, it’s fantastic.”

Ueli Rebsamen (Captain and Attacker, Switzerland): “Unfortunately, we made a few silly mistakes, which didn’t happen with the Austrians. That was ultimately the difference. The atmosphere in the arena is unique. As a minority sport, we probably won’t experience this again so quickly.”

Siegfried Simon (Head Coach, Austria): “It was hard work. The 3:0 result may seem clear, but the match was far from it. We are correspondingly happy to be in the final. Reaching the final and winning the title are our self-declared goals. We have been working towards that since the coaching change in October last year. It’s even more beautiful that we have come a step closer to that goal. In 2007, when I won the World Championship title in Oldenburg, the atmosphere was also very loud. Although we didn’t play in an arena, it was similar. In the last training camps, we prepared ourselves exactly for this situation.”

All games of the WC are broadcast live on fistball.tv.
Tickets: tickets.faustballwm.de

Recap Day 6 World Championship – The first rankings of the Fistball World Championship have been determined

While the semi-final teams prepare for tomorrow’s matches, the first placement decisions have been made at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium. In the early afternoon, Argentina and Chile secure their tickets for the fifth-place game, and in the evening, Serbia, the Czech Republic, and New Zealand triumph in their respective placement matches. At the same time, preparations for the grand final weekend are underway at the SAP Arena throughout the day. Tomorrow the semi-finals will determine which teams will advance to the final on Saturday.

Argentina advances to the Fifth-Place Game
Argentina – Denmark 3:0 (11:4, 11:4, 11:9)

Denmark fails to replicate their strong performance from the quarterfinal against Austria. Only in the third set can the Scandinavians keep up with the favored Argentinians, but ultimately, it’s Argentina’s Romeo Dominioni who makes the difference. Argentina wins comfortably and will play for fifth place in the World Championship on Saturday.

Chile stages a comeback in a heated match against Italy
Italy – Chile 1:3 (11:8, 9:11, 7:11, 9:11)

Armin Runer and Alváro Mödinger duke it out in an intense four set battle. Both main attackers are consistently put into play by their teams and keep the game competitive with impressive points in their serves. Despite initially leading and a strong performance by Runer, Italy cannot match the South Americans in crucial moments. Close calls and spectacular plays bring out intense emotions on both sides. Chile secures the victory with a strong finish and will face Argentina in the fifth-place game.

Serbia secures 15th place in the World Championship
Japan – Serbia 1:3 (12:10, 8:11, 1:11, 4:11)

A surprising start to the game couldn’t ultimately help Japan. The team from East Asia manages to win the first set against Serbia. However, as the match progresses, Serbia displays greater experience and routine, leading to Japan losing the next three sets decisively. With a 3:1 victory, Serbia secures the 15th position in the Fistball World Championship.

Czech Republic defeats Australia in the battle for 13th place
Australia – Czech Republic 2:3 (3:11, 9:11, 11:6, 11:8, 5:11)

In their final appearances at the Fistball World Championship, the teams from Australia and the Czech Republic aim to give the numerous spectators a fantastic performance. Both teams compete for the 13th position on the wet field at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium. In the penultimate match of the day, the Czech Republic, led by Mannheimer Daniel Schwarz, manages to secure a close victory in 3:2 sets. Both teams engage in a relentless battle throughout the full duration of five sets and celebrate together with the fans in Mannheim after the match.

New Zealand Beats Belgium and Finishes the World Championship in 11th Place.
New Zealand – Belgium 3:1 (11:5, 11:2, 9:11, 11:3)

In the last match of Thursday, New Zealand continues their impressive performances in the World Championship and convincingly secures the 11th place. The replacements from Belgium manage to keep up only in phases against New Zealand in front of many fans at the Rhein-Neckar Stadium. Only the third set goes to Belgium as New Zealand made substantial lineup changes and gave playing time to all players in the squad. Returning with their top formation in the fourth set, New Zealand comfortably takes the match 3:1 and finishes the tournament on a high note.

All games of the WC are broadcast live on fistball.tv.
Tickets: tickets.faustballwm.de

Recap Day 5 World Championship – Heading to the SAP Arena: The semifinalists are determined!

The semifinal matches of the 16th Men’s Fistball World Championship at the SAP Arena have been decided: Brazil will face Germany, while Switzerland and Austria will compete against each other in the second duel. The final for the President’s Cup and the ninth place will be contested between the USA and Namibia.

Brazil – Italy 3:0 (11:7, 11:6, 11:2)
The Italians were unable to handle the powerful game of the Brazilians on the wet ground. The attackers Gabriel Heck, Bruno Arnold, and later Rodrigo Sprandel played almost flawlessly, supported by a solid defense. For Italy, the remaining battle is for fifth place and their next match will be held against Chile on Thursday. Brazil will face Germany in the semifinals on Friday.

Switzerland – Argentina 3:0 (11:3, 11:8, 11:7)
The Swiss team achieved an almost flawless first set with their experienced attacking duo Ueli Rebsamen and Raphael Schlattinger. In the second set, the South Americans put up a fight, staying even at 8:8, but the Swiss secured the set. Argentina mainly scored through their young attacker Nahuel Vener, who made an impression with his strong service. The semifinal clash on Friday will be the classic match between Switzerland and Austria.

Austria secures a spot in the semifinals
Austria – Denmark 3:0 (11:7, 11:3, 11:9)

In the quarterfinal against the surprising team from Denmark, the Danes impressed with powerful attacks and an emotional appearance. However, Austria closed the first set with an ace at 11:7 in just nine minutes. The second set ended decisively at 11:3. In the third set, the Danes improved their game, thrilling the spectators, but they couldn’t secure a set victory.

Germany remains undefeated
Germany – Chile 3:0 (11:5, 11:7, 11:1)

Germany confidently advances to the semifinals, remaining undefeated in sets. Despite initial nervousness, Patrick Thomas especially left his mark on the game. In the first two sets, the Chileans kept pace until the middle of the set, but then Germany went ahead, showcasing their dominance in the third set. The first match point was converted to 11:1 after 50 minutes.

 

President’s Cup Matches:

Australia defeats Japan for the second time
Australia – Japan 3:0 (11:8, 11:4, 11:8)

Australia secures the second victory over Japan at this World Championship. The Japanese, who gained sympathy in Mannheim, played a strong first set but couldn’t reward themselves with a set win. The third set was balanced. Australia needed four match points to secure the victory and will play against the Czech Republic for 13th place. Japan will face Serbia for 15th place.

Czech Republic triumphs over Serbia
Czech Republic – Serbia 3:1 (9:11, 11:5, 11:3, 11:4)

The Serbians rewarded themselves with a strong start, winning the first set despite some errors, particularly in serving. However, the Czechs found their rhythm as the match progressed and confidently won the following three sets.

USA triumphs over New Zealand
USA – New Zealand 3:1 (11:7, 10:12, 11:8, 11:8)

In an exciting duel, the USA defeats New Zealand and advances to the final for the President’s Cup, the match for ninth place. Despite losing the second set, the Americans bounced back. Attacker Josh Cameron repeatedly challenged the USA’s defense. Led by veteran Todd Strassberger, the USA controlled the match to secure victory.

Namibia celebrates a clear victory
Belgium – Namibia 0:3 (5:11, 6:11, 5:11)

Namibia advances to the final for the President’s Cup. The team, led by main attacker Karl-Heinz Traut, dominates the game against Belgium. Traut’s attacking shots are too powerful and well-placed for the Belgian defense. On the other hand, Belgium’s Jorun Vanmelle struggles to find a way to challenge the African team’s defense significantly. Thus, on Thursday, Belgium will play against New Zealand for 11th place.

All games are livstreamed on fistball.tv.