France defeat Argentina in heated Olympics football clash
Mateta’s Early Goal Seals Semi-Final Spot in Paris Olympics for France
France Olympic football team triumphed over Argentina in a tense quarter-final securing a 1-0 victory on Friday.
Jean-Philippe Mateta scored the decisive goal just five minutes into the match converting a well-placed corner by Michael Olise with a precise near-post header. This win propels France who are coached by Arsenal legend Thierry Henry into the semi-finals where they will face Egypt.
Although France won the game but the excitement on the pitch turned ugly at full-time.
Players and staff from both teams clashed continuing their confrontations into the tunnel. This match marked the first encounter between the two nations since Argentina’s players were recorded singing racist chants targeting French stars including Kylian Mbappe after their Copa America win in July.
The chants which included racist and homophobic insults are under investigation by FIFA.
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Tensions Rise Amid Historical Rivalry
The atmosphere in Bordeaux was electric and hostile. The French crowd jeered during Argentina’s national anthem reflecting the simmering tensions since the 2022 World Cup final which Argentina won on penalties.
France’s coach Thierry Henry expressed frustration after midfielder Enzo Millot received a red card post-match despite being off the pitch.
Led by Javier Mascherano Argentina had opportunities through Giuliano Simeone and Julian Alvarez but failed to convert them. Their exit means the men’s football gold will not go to a Latin American team for the first time since 2000 when Cameroon won in Sydney.
The other teams in Olympics – Spain and Morocco Advance
Spain and Morocco also secured their spots in the semi-finals. Spain defeated Japan 3-0 thanks to a double from Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez and a goal by captain Abel Ruiz. Lopez’s brilliance shone through with his long-range opener and a superb volleyed second goal.
On the other hand Morocco outclassed the United States with a 4-0 victory in Paris. The tournament’s top scorer Soufiane Rahimi added to his tally with a penalty while Ilias Akhomach, Achraf Hakimi, and Mehdi Maouhoub rounded off the scoring.
Akhomach expressed confidence in their performance stating: “If we keep playing like this we will deserve to be in the final.”
As the semi-finals approach the competition intensifies with France facing Egypt and Spain clashing with Morocco. The stage is set for thrilling encounters as these teams vie for a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympic final.