France Dominates US in 3-0 Victory
France opened their Olympic men’s soccer campaign with a commanding 3-0 win over the United States. Stunning goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Michael Olise secured the victory. Despite a strong start, the US was unable to capitalize on a near miss from Djordje Mihailovic, whose long-range effort hit the crossbar.
Lacazette’s strike in the 61st minute, followed by Olise’s goal in the 68th, put France in control. Loic Bade sealed the win with a header in the 85th minute. France’s coach Thierry Henry praised the US team’s resilience, acknowledging their fighting spirit.
Morocco Edges Out Argentina in Dramatic Match
Morocco defeated Argentina 2-1 in a match marred by a pitch invasion that caused a two-hour suspension. Soufiane Rahimi scored twice for Morocco, including a penalty in the 49th minute. Argentina’s Giuliano Simeone pulled one back, and Cristian Medina’s potential equalizer was ruled offside, leading to chaos among the fans.
Spain Triumphs Over Uzbekistan
In Group C, Spain secured a 2-1 victory against Uzbekistan. Sergio Gomez’s goal in the 62nd minute proved decisive after Eldor Shomurodov had equalized with a penalty in first-half stoppage time. Spain’s Marc Pubill opened the scoring in the 29th minute.
New Zealand Beats Guinea
New Zealand won their Group A opener against Guinea with a 2-1 scoreline. Matthew Garbett and Ben Waine scored for New Zealand, while Amadou Diawara found the net for Guinea.
Egypt and Dominican Republic Draw
Egypt and the Dominican Republic played to a scoreless draw in Group C. Peter Gonzalez’s goal for the Dominican Republic was disallowed due to a foul, keeping the match level.
Japan Overwhelms Paraguay
Japan routed Paraguay 5-0 in Group D. Shunsuke Mito and Shota Fujio each scored twice, with Rihito Yamamoto adding another goal. Paraguay’s Wilder Vera was sent off in the 25th minute, which Japan capitalized on to dominate the match.
Iraq Surprises Ukraine
Iraq came from behind to beat Ukraine 2-1 in Group B. Valentyn Rubchynskyi scored for Ukraine, but Aymen Hussein equalized with a penalty before Ali Jasim secured the win for Iraq.
Mali Draws with Israel
Mali and Israel played to a 1-1 draw in Group D. Hamidou Diallo’s own goal gave Israel the lead, but Cheickna Doumbia’s header equalized for Mali.
The Olympic men’s soccer tournament has started with a bang, showcasing thrilling matches and unexpected results. Fans can look forward to more exciting action as the competition progresses.
