World Cup for the Blind

Players from France’s national team take to the pitch for the World Championships of Soccer for the Blind in Argentina. How do the blind play footie? Glad you asked. Each team has five field players and a guide who can see shouting instructions behind their attacking goal. The ball is equipped with a special noise that lets the players know its location and play is stopped if the crowd is too loud or if one of those pesky airplanes flies overhead. Presumably hurling insults about the referee’s vision is also frowned upon. This year’s competition features eight teams with the final being played on November 30. Considering the fact that I can’t even brush my teeth without my glasses on, I applaud these athletes.

Here’s a little action from a previous competition.

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Category: World Football