Spain beat Thailand in the tournament's first game ©IBSA

Hosts Spain enjoyed the perfect start to the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) Blind Football World Championships as they won the first match of the tournament against Thailand.

They won the Group A clash 2-1 at capital Madrid's Colegio Sagrado Corazón venue after converting two penalties.

All of the goals arrived in the second half with Antonio Martin putting the hosts 1-0 up with their first spot kick, conceded when the Thai goalkeeper handled outside of the area.

Thailand equalised when Panyawut netted but Spain's second penalty was tucked away by Adolfo Acosta.

The match was the only fixture played today and came after an Opening Ceremony attended by Vicente del Bosque, who guided Spain to the FIFA World Cup title and European Championship crown.

Vicente del Bosque attended the Opening Ceremony ©IBSA
Vicente del Bosque attended the Opening Ceremony ©IBSA

Spain and Thailand will also compete alongside Morocco and Turkey in Group A.

Copa America winners Argentina, France, Colombia and Iran make up Group B.

European gold medallists Russia, who will participate as neutrals owing to the nation's doping scandal, Mexico, South Korea and Asian title holders China comprise Group C.

Group D features holders and Paralympic champions Brazil, England, Mali and Costa Rica.

Five matches will be played tomorrow.