Ravenna, Italy - African champion Senegal got onto a good start at the FIFA World Beach Soccer which opened in Ravenna, Italy Thursday, beating Switzerland on penalties after both teams deadlocked 8-8 at full and extra time.

The hard-fought victory gave Senegal the two points at stake, putting the team in joint lead with host Italy which also defeated Iran on penalties in the other group A match.

Italy and Iran finished regulation and extra time play at 6-6, necessitating the penalty shootout.

Africa's other representatives, Nigeria, however lost its opening group C match 8-4 to Russia.

Pana 03/09/2011