FIFA is counting down to the tournament by showcasing 10 of the greatest moments in FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup history™.

Was the man widely regarded as the GOAT going to retire having never won the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™? Madjer had finished runner-up with Portugal at the inaugural instalment and third thrice.

Going into the 2015 edition he was 38. He knew that, even if he made it, he’d be in his 40s at the next global finals. Madjer conceded that it may be his last shot. He added that, with the event taking place on home sand in Espinho, it was his best. “I’d swap every individual award I’ve ever won for the title,” said the golazo god, who had astonishingly seized nine personal prizes from six tournaments participations.

Portugal had a testing trail to the final, but a Madjer hat-trick inspired them to a 7-3 victory over Switzerland, before Be Martins headlined a 4-2 reverse of Russia in the semi-finals. Standing in the way of the Selecção das Quinas and that elusive crown were Tahiti. The nerves on the Praia da Baia were palpable.

They were relaxed within three seconds of kick-off. Madjer played a blocker-disorientating one-two with Belchior, before slamming an unstoppable volley home. It set Portugal en route to a 5-3 win.

“I can’t put into words how much we’ve dreamed of this,” said Madjer. “It feels even better than we dreamed it would. We’re ecstatic.

“I’ve been around a long time. To win the title in front of the Portuguese people is the zenith of my career. I have my son here. I’m extremely emotional.”