FRANCE FACE MATCH-FIXING ALLEGATIONS AT FUTSAL WORLD CUP

Both France and Iran qualified for the round of 16 of the Futsal World Cup. Robertus Pudyanto - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

France brushed off allegations of match-fixing after their 4-1 defeat by Iran sent them into a softer part of the draw at the Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan.

Following a lifeless first half, Iran easily prevailed after France conceded a seemingly soft opening goal, triggering angry reactions from other teams, some of whom filed complaints to world governing body FIFA.

"FIFA is aware of complaints filed by participating teams at the FIFA Futsal World Cup Uzbekistan 2024 regarding the Group F match between France and IR Iran," a FIFA spokesperson said in a statement.

"No further comment will be made while this process is ongoing."

The French Football Federation was not immediately available for comment.

France coach Raphael Reynaud said the way the match played out was about avoiding bookings and injuries.

"It was Iran's responsibility to be in charge of the game," he said. "The draw is more open for us but our main goal was not to get booked and to avoid injuries."

While both teams had already qualified for the round of 16, the result means France will take on Thailand before a potential quarterfinal against Paraguay, while Iran face Morocco ahead of a possible clash against world No. 1 Brazil.

"Iran and France, coaches and players alike, have disgraced my sport. You are a disgrace to the world," Thailand coach Miguel Rodrigo wrote on X.

Retired Brazil great Falcao was quoted by French media as saying: "It shows a lack of respect for the World Cup. The match was clearly fixed from the first minute."

- Reuters