Newcomers Finland took on two-time champions Italy in what many expected to be a one-sided affair in The Netherlands.

However, the Finns were unlucky not to come away with three points as Cainan De Matos rescued a late goal for Italy to make it 3-3.

Henri Alamikkotervo scored Finland's first goal in the country's Futsal Euro history after just 53 seconds with a fierce long-range effort.

Douglas Nicolodi provided an instant response for the Azzurri as he cut in from the left touchline and smashed the ball into the roof of the net after two minutes and 28 seconds.

The score then remained level until the 23^rd minute when De Matos scored his first.

Italy's lead lasted for just 10 seconds as Alamikkotervo was on target once more with a quickly taken free kick.

Finland regained the lead through Panu Autio after 33 minutes.

The captain lost his man at a corner to nod home unmarked.

De Matos' 39^th minute strike then crushed Finland as they could not fend off the relentless Italian pressure.

There were a combined 80 shots at goal from both sides in what was a thrilling encounter.

Earlier in the day, Kazakhstan and Slovenia drew 4-4 in a feisty affair which saw Albert Akbalikov of Kazakhstan receive a red card.

The score went back and forth as Slovenia took the lead three times but could not stay solid at the back.

Douglas Junior produced a player of the match performance with two spectacular goals, including an unstoppable volley in the 16^th minute.

Group C play begins tomorrow at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam with Russia taking on Slovakia while Poland clash with Croatia.