Ukraine began their title defence with victory in the IBSA tournament ©IBSA

Defending champions Ukraine began their defence of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA) Partially Sighted Football World Championships with victory over France in Italian city Cagliari.

The holders saw off France 3-1 in their opening Group A clash in Sardinia's capital.

Ukraine won the last tournament held in South Korean capital Seoul in 2015.

There was also a victory in Group A on day one for England, who eased past Japan 10-2. 

In Group B, hosts Italy suffered a disappointing start as they went down 6-0 to Russia.

Spain beat Turkey 4-2 in the group's other game.

Ukraine are the defending champions ©IBSA
Ukraine are the defending champions ©IBSA

The tournament is for B2 and B3 players, who have less impairment than the B1 category where athletes are almost or totally blind.

It is being run by Tigers Paralympic Sport, a member of the Italian Paralympic Federation for the Visually Impaired (FISPIC).

The tournament is the seventh edition in all, with action returning to Europe for the first time since 2004 when Manchester in England played host. 

Tomorrow's matches see England take on Ukraine in Group A with France meeting Japan.

Russia and Spain will lock horns in Group B, with Italy taking on Turkey.