Newcomers steal the show in Round 2 thriller of European Blind Football League

Florence, Italy, witnessed a seismic shift in the European Blind Football League (EBFL) as newcomers ASD Quartotempo Firenze delivered a series of stunning performances, shaking up the established order in Round Two. RNC Hereford found themselves caught in the whirlwind of this unexpected dominance.


RNC's first match was a highly anticipated clash against the home side, Firenze. The Italian team, new to the EBFL, boasted a familiar face in Paul Iyobo. A formidable player, who also represents West Bromwich Albion in the National Blind Football League.

Iyobo proved to be a constant threat to RNC. His powerful and skilful play resulted in four goals, leaving RNC reeling. Despite a spirited second-half fightback with Eesa Amjid scoring two goals, RNC couldn't overcome the deficit, and the match ended 4-2 in favour of Firenze.

RNC's hopes of redemption in their second game against Greek side Pirsos Thessaloniki were dashed as Pirsos, suffering injuries from their earlier match against Cécifoot Charleroi, were unable to field a team. According to EBFL rules, a forfeit resulted in a 6-0 victory for RNC. While securing valuable points, the team expressed disappointment at missing the opportunity to play.

However, the day truly belonged to Firenze. They continued their remarkable run by delivering a stunning 6-1 victory over French powerhouse Bondy Cécifoot Club. This result sent shockwaves through the league, especially considering Bondy's roster includes numerous Paralympic gold medallists. Firenze's decisive win marked them as serious contenders for this year's League.

The day's results painted a clear picture of the changing landscape:

Borussia Dortmund 0-3 Bondy Cécifoot Club
Pirsos Thessaloniki 1-2 Cécifoot Charleroi
ASD Quartotempo Firenze 4-2 RNC Hereford
Cécifoot Charleroi 4-3 Borussia Dortmund
RNC Hereford 6-0 Pirsos Thessaloniki (Score awarded through default)
Bondy Cécifoot Club 1-6 ASD Quartotempo Firenze

After four games, the EBFL standings reflect the dramatic shifts:

1. Cécifoot Charleroi - 10 points
2. ASD Quartotempo Firenze - 9 points
3. RNC Hereford - 7 points
4. Bondy Cécifoot Club - 5 points
5. Borussia Dortmund - 3 points
6. Pirsos Thessaloniki - 0 points

Cécifoot Charleroi currently leads the League, but the emergence of ASD Quartotempo Firenze has injected a new level of excitement and unpredictability. RNC, despite their mixed results, remain firmly in contention. This Round demonstrated the growing competitiveness and talent within the EBFL, promising an exciting season ahead.

Next stop France for Round 3.

Pictured: The team and some of the coaching staff standing outside the Cathedral in Florence