Mauricinho marked his 100th appearance for the Brazilian national team with a hat-trick, while Bokinha and Filipe each scored twice.

Catarino's acrobatic bicycle kick rounded off the scoring for the defending champions in a comfortable Group D victory at Estadio Mundialista "Los Pynandi" in Luque.

In the other match in the group, Portugal thrashed Nigeria 10-1.

Russia also began with a win as they edged out Senegal 8-7 in a battle of two continental title holders.

The European champions were constantly pegged back by their African counterparts in a thrilling Group C encounter.

Belarus, making their Beach Soccer World Cup debut, eased to a 5-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates.

The tournament continues tomorrow with the second round of matches in Groups A and B.