Olympics24: Spain thwarts a fighting France 5-3 in extra time in epic final in mens football

 

After winning the Euro Cup, Spain has now claimed gold at the Olympics as well. On Friday, at the Parc des Princes Stadium in Paris, they defeated the host nation, France, with a 5-3 victory. The match was intense, with both teams delivering a thrilling performance. Spain led 3-1 at halftime but conceded two goals in the second half. However, Spain secured their gold with two more goals during extra time.

From the start, Spain controlled possession but struggled to launch effective attacks. Their advances were repeatedly thwarted by France's defense. Despite being under pressure, it was France who took the lead. France's forward Milot took a shot at goal, but it lacked power. In an attempt to catch it, Spain’s goalkeeper, Tenas, accidentally put the ball into his own net.

Spain equalized just six minutes later. In their first serious attack, they found the back of the net. Sergio Gómez, finding space on the right, sent a cross into the box, where Fermín López scored. In the 26th minute, Spain took the lead again, with another goal from Fermín. Gonzales delivered a cross from the left into the French box, and although France's goalkeeper saved Abel Ruiz’s initial shot, Fermín scored on the rebound.

Spain's third goal came in the 29th minute. They were awarded a free-kick near France's box, and Álex Baena’s perfectly placed shot went into the goal, leaving the French goalkeeper no chance. The sudden shift in momentum stunned the crowd, most of whom were French supporters, and the entire stadium fell silent. Spain dominated the rest of the first half.

In the second half, France desperately sought to get back into the game, launching a series of attacks on Spain's box. Badiashile's shot hit the post, and France's relentless pressure pushed Spain into a defensive shell. The aggressive play that Spain displayed in the first half suddenly disappeared, and France took advantage of this. Nobody expected France to make such a comeback late in the game.

In the 80th minute, France pulled one back. They were awarded a free-kick just outside Spain’s box, which Olise lofted into the box, and Aklitché scored from there. France equalized in added time. Kalimuendo was brought down in the box by Miranda, and after consulting VAR, the referee awarded a penalty. Mateta scored from the spot. Shortly after, Turientes’ shot hit the post for Spain, and Olise missed a golden opportunity for France.

Few could have imagined that Spain would turn the match around in extra time. Spain took the lead once again in extra time, with Sergio Pérez scoring after receiving the ball just outside the opponent’s box and beating his marker. Then, in the final seconds of extra time, Spain sealed their victory with a fifth goal. Spain’s goalkeeper threw the ball to Pérez, who was in France's half. Pérez calmly collected it and scored, ensuring Spain’s gold medal victory.