Defending champions Saudi Arabia made a good start ©INAS

Three-time defending champions Saudi Arabia opened their account with a win at the 2018 International Federation for Athletes with Intellectual Impairments (INAS) Football World Championships in Arvika today.

The Asian side, winners in 2006, 2010 and 2014, outclassed Russia 5-1 at the Solviksvallen stadium. 

Russia were outclassed from the beginning to end against a strong team seeking to continue their domination.

European champions Poland could mount a stiff challenge in Group B, though.

Argentina also made a winning start to the tournament ©INAS
Argentina also made a winning start to the tournament ©INAS

They defeated Japan 2-1 in the other game in the group today.

Argentina have also won 4-2 against France in Group A.

The event is taking place in stadiums in four towns across Sweden: Tingvalla IP and Örsholmens IP in Karlstad, Sannavallen in Kristinehamn, Solviksvallen in Arvika and the Sannerudsvallen in Kil.