When Gonzalo Abbas, head coach of the Argentina women's blind football squad, lifted the trophy at the 2025 International Blind Sports Federation Women’s Blind Football World Championship, the victory felt surreal amid a stadium that barely filled its seats.
The final took place on on the United Sports Centre Ground in Kakkanad, Kochi, Kerala, India. Argentina beat England 2‑0, with goals from Gracia Sosa Barreneche (jersey #8) and Yohana Aguilar (jersey #10). Barreneche walked away as the tournament’s best player and top scorer, while England’s keeper Alicia Grimmond earned best‑goalkeeper honors.
Background and Significance
The 2025 edition of the IBSA Women’s Blind Football World ChampionshipKakkanad, Kochi brought together eight nations for a week of high‑stakes competition. Argentina entered as defending champions, having captured their first title in 2023 by defeating Japan. The tournament was organized by the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) in partnership with the Indian Blind Football Federation (IBFF).
Tournament Journey: Argentina’s Path to the Title
Argentina opened the group stage on October 6 against Canada, securing a 3‑1 win that set the tone. A day later, they faced Turkey and emerged victorious 2‑0, sealing the top spot in Group A. The semifinals saw a tense showdown with regional rivals Brazil on October 10. A solitary strike from Agustina Medina Paez in Match 16 handed Argentina a 1‑0 win and a ticket to the final.
In the championship match, Barreneche opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, followed by Aguilar’s finish ten minutes later. England never recovered, and the match ended 2‑0, confirming Argentina’s back‑to‑back titles.
Key Players and Moments
- Gracia Sosa Barreneche – Best player, top scorer (5 goals total).
- Yohana Aguilar – Second goal in the final, solid midfield presence.
- Agustina Medina Paez – Hero of the semifinal against Brazil.
- Milagros Romero – Midfielder who voiced the team’s admiration for Lionel Messi in a pre‑final practice.
- Santiago Jugo – Team guide, instrumental in logistics and morale.
During a training session, midfielder Milagros Romero said, “I love him. He is the best. Not just me, but all my teammates love him. We still haven’t got an opportunity to interact with him, so it’s our wish of a lifetime to meet him.” Her teammate’s nods made the sentiment unmistakable.
Attendance Issues and Messi Mania
Kerala is known for its football fervor, yet the blind‑football championship struggled to draw crowds. Organizers from the IBFF noted the sparse attendance and blamed the media spotlight on the upcoming visit of the senior Argentina national team led by Lionel Messi.
The trophy hand‑over was performed by Lokanath Behera, managing director of Kochi Metro Rail Ltd, during the October 11 closing ceremony. While the ceremony sparkled, the underlying concern remains: how can future blind‑football events capture the public’s imagination when a superstar like Messi overshadows them?
Legacy and What Lies Ahead
Argentina’s triumph cements the nation’s emerging dominance in women’s blind football. The squad’s blend of experience and youthful drive suggests they’ll be the team to beat at the next IBSA tournament, likely slated for 2027.
Off the pitch, the players’ desire to meet Messi could create a unique promotional opportunity. If the Argentine federation manages to arrange a joint appearance, it could boost visibility for blind sports across South America and Asia alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this victory affect the future of blind football in Argentina?
The win solidifies Argentina’s reputation as a powerhouse, attracting more funding from the national sports ministry and inspiring young visually‑impaired athletes to pursue the sport, especially as the team now enjoys heightened media attention.
Who were the standout players of the tournament?
Gracia Sosa Barreneche earned best‑player and top‑scorer honors, while Yohana Aguilar scored the decisive second goal in the final. Agustina Medina Paez’s semifinal winner and Milagros Romero’s leadership off the ball also drew praise.
Why was attendance low despite Kerala’s football culture?
The tournament coincided with intense media buzz around Lionel Messi’s upcoming visit with the senior Argentina squad, diverting public interest and ticket sales away from the blind‑football matches.
When is the next IBSA Women’s Blind Football World Championship?
The next edition is scheduled for 2027, with the host nation yet to be announced. Argentina is expected to enter as defending champions.
What steps are being taken to give the team a chance to meet Messi?
Argentina’s football federation has hinted at a joint community event in Buenos Aires later this year, where the blind‑football squad could meet Messi, potentially boosting visibility for the sport.
