By David Gold

Brazil blind_footballMay 17 - Brazil's five-a-side football team has emerged triumphant in the International Challenge Cup against Argentina in São Paulo.


The series, between arguably the world's top two teams in five-a-side football, was played at the stadium of São Paulo Football Club, the Estádio do Morumbi.

The two teams also met in the final of the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, where Brazil emerged victorious.

Jefinho put Brazil ahead in the final game from a corner, but Lucas equalised just before the end of the match, before winning 2-0 on penalties against the Argentines.

The two countries had played out a 1-1 draw earlier in the week, while Brazil had won another game 2-0.

"This challenge is crucial for the preparation of the Games," said Ramón Pereira, Brazil's coach.

"We saw the technical and tactical details [of the team].

"Our goal is gold in the Paralympics."

Jefinho added: "We know we have many technical difficulties and tactics in London, but we will overcome to get the Tri London."

It was a crucial competition for Brazil as they must decide which players to take to London later this summer, when they will be aiming for a third successive Paralympic gold medal.

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