Group 1: Russia rampant

Russia made it through to the 2003 UEFA European Futsal Championship finals in fine style scoring 19 goals in the process.

Ivanov treble

Hosts happy
On the same day, Hungary, who were staging the mini-tournament, demolished Latvia 8-0. The Hungarians spread the goals around too although Latvia were only two behind at the break. Three goals in the final three minutes settled the contest in Hungary’s favour, to delight the home support.

Main man
Latvia's torment did not ease up when they took on Russia, although this time they lost 7-0. Ivanov was again the main man for Russia, hitting another treble. Hungary ensured a final game showdown with Russia, by winning their second game. They beat Israel 3-1 with Miklós Tóth hitting a double although credit must go to the Israelis for making it a competitive encounter.

Final battle
It all meant Russia would play Hungary in a deciding last game, while Israel and Latvia would battle it out to avoid the wooden spoon. Viatcheslav Moskalenko hit two as Russia cruised to a 6-2 victory against the Hungarians, who scored the last two goals of the game in the 38th minute to give the scoreline some respectability. Israel finished third in the table after finishing with a 4-2 win against Latvia, who had done well to claw back to 2-2 after going two behind.