Russia are one of four countries to have earned a place in the men’s beach soccer tournament at the 2019 ANOC World Beach Games in San Diego after reaching the semi-finals at the European qualifier in Salou ©Beach Soccer Worldwide/Twitter

Italy, Russia, Spain and Switzerland have all earned their place in the men’s beach soccer tournament at the 2019 Association of National Olympic Committees World Beach Games in San Diego after reaching the semi-finals at the European qualifier in Salou.

Today’s quarter-final action at the Complex Esportiu Futbol Salou started with a narrow 5-4 win for Switzerland over Portugal.

Awaiting them in the last four are Russia, who beat Ukraine 7-2.

The other semi-final encounter pits Italy against hosts Spain.

Italy defeated France 10-2 before Spain overcame Belarus 5-0. 

In the women’s round-robin event, Switzerland made it two wins out of two thanks to a 9-4 victory over Czech Republic.

The one other match held today saw Russia beat Spain 3-2 after extra-time to move onto five points, one behind the table-topping Swiss.

Five women’s sides are vying for two places at San Diego 2019.

Also competing are England, who face Switzerland tomorrow prior to Spain’s meeting with Czech Republic.

Action in Salou is due to conclude on Sunday (May 12).