Turkey wins IBSA Blind Football European Championship

Turkey became the IBSA Blind Football European Champion on Saturday afternoon, following a 1-0 victory over Russia in the final of the championship in Hereford, U.K.

Turkey's defense was as solid as a rock and did not even let the Russians score one goal. Turkey's goal early in the match which started at 15.00 local time, set the rest of the game and gave the Turkish team its first European title.

Turkey's trophy and other medals were presented by former England captain Dave Clark, President of the International Paralympic Committee Philip Craven and chair of the IBSA Football Committee Ulrich Pfisterer.

Spain came in third, after beating host U.K. 1-0 in a penalty shoot-out.

In the first semi-final of the European Championships, Russia had faced England, the undefeated and victorious team up until the semifinal.

The closely contested match ended with a draw and the final score was determined in the penalty shoot-out.
Russia's one out of three well-timed kicks got them a place in the final.

The second semi-final also saw a very close match, which again was left to penalties. Reigning European champions Spain couldn't get past Turkey's goal keeper, and Turkey's two goals secured them a place in the final.

By making it to the final, Russia and Turkey have qualified for the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

France came in 5th with a victory over Germany, whereas Italy finished in 7th place after defeating Belgium. Poland beat last-place Greece with their first ever goal at the European Championships.