By Daniel Etchells

Japan and Paraguay line up before their encounter ©IBSAHost nation Japan beat Paraguay in the opening match of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) Blind Football World Championship in Tokyo today.  

Tomonari Kuroda scored the only goal of the game in the Group A encounter as Japan avenged the defeat they suffered in the only previous meeting between the two countries. 

The silver medallists at last month's Asian Para Games in Incheon next play Morocco, who drew 0-0 with France in the day's other match.
 
The French had some good scoring opportunities, with Martin Baron and Yvan Wouandji going close, but Morocco, the first-ever African representatives at the World Championship, held on for a point. 

France prepare for their match against Morocco ©IBSAFrance prepare for their match against Morocco ©IBSA



Tomorrow's Group B action sees reigning champions Brazil kick off their campaign against Turkey, while China face Colombia.

Meanwhile in Group C, two-time winners Argentina meet European champions Spain and South Korea go up against Germany. 

The Championship brings together 12 of the world's best blind football teams, making it the biggest ever international event in the sport.

The top eight teams from the group stages advance to the knock-out phase. 

Watch live streams of all the matches here. 

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