Spain Clinches Olympic Gold in Thrilling Men's Football Final Against France
In a nail-biting men's Olympic football final held at the Parc des Princes in Paris on August 9, Spain triumphed over France with a final score of 5-3 after extra time, thanks to a stunning two-goal performance by substitute Sergio Camello.
The match commenced dramatically, with France taking an early lead just 11 minutes in through Enzo Millot. The French forward capitalized on a defensive error, firing a shot that caught Spanish goalkeeper Arnau Tenas off guard. However, Spain responded swiftly, equalizing in the 18th minute when Fermin Lopez found the back of the net after a well-executed 26-pass move, culminating in a precise assist from Alex Baena.
Spain quickly seized momentum and took the lead in the 25th minute. After a poorly dealt cross by the French defense, Lopez was on hand to convert the rebound from a saved shot by Abel Ruiz. Moments later, Baena extended Spain's advantage by scoring from a well-placed free kick that crept over the wall and into the net.
Facing a 3-1 deficit at half-time, the French squad, led by Thierry Henry, mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. They clawed back into the match with a goal from Maghnes Akliouche in the 79th minute, who scored following a well-delivered free kick from Michael Olise. A dramatic stoppage-time penalty, awarded after a VAR review for a foul on Arnaud Kalimuendo, was converted by Jean-Philippe Mateta, leveling the score at 3-3 and sending the match into extra time.
With the tension palpable, Spain regained their lead in the 100th minute when Rayo Vallecano forward Sergio Camello emerged as the hero, finishing skillfully after being released by Adrian Bernabe. He added a second goal shortly before the end of extra time, securing Spain's victory and their second Olympic gold medal in men's football, the first having come in 1992 during the Barcelona Games.
The triumph completes a remarkable summer for Spain, who also secured the UEFA European Championship title just weeks prior, alongside their Under-19 Euro victory against France. In contrast, France, aiming for a second Olympic gold medal following their win in Los Angeles 40 years ago, leaves with a silver medal, reflecting on a tournament filled with promise.
Despite the heart-wrenching loss, the French team showcased their grit and determination throughout the tournament, evoking memories of their dramatic World Cup final against Argentina in 2022. As fans and players alike left the pitch, both teams were reminded of the beauty of football, underscored by the unforgettable moments of this thrilling final.
Related Sources: