OLYMPICS 2024: Argentina, Egypt, Morocco through to men’s Olympics football knockouts
Morocco thrashed Iraq and Egypt upset Spain to win their groups on Tuesday, while Argentina sunk Ukraine to reach the Men’s Olympics Football Tournament quarter-finals.
Abde Ezzalzouli’s wonder goal decorated an emphatic Morocco victory that sent them through as Group B winners ahead of Argentina, whose quarter-final ticket was seized by goals from Thiago Almada and Claudio Echeverri.
Elsewhere, Ibrahim Adel was the two-goal hero as Egypt upset Spain to progress in first place in Group C on a day when Dominican Republic, Iraq and Ukraine suffered elimination.
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A chance-shy contest sprung to life at the end of the first half. Kiril Fesiun did brilliantly to repel a Luciano Gondou effort, before Mykola Mykhaylenko danced his way into the Argentina area only to see Marco Di Cesare make a superb block. The deadlock was broken in style courtesy of Almada’s moving strike from distance, before Echeverri put the result beyond doubt by sliding home a rebound.
Morocco turned it on in Nice to not only go through, but to do so as section winners. Achraf Hakimi’s glorious cross enabled Amir Richardson to nod home the first at the back post, before Soufiane Rahimi pounced for his fourth goal of the tournament.
Ezzalzouli then completed the success in breathtaking style, jinking in from the left and unleashing an unstoppable strike from outside the box.
Argentina’s journey
Argentina has a storied history in football, and its Olympic team is no exception. The Argentine squad has consistently produced world-class players who have gone on to achieve great success in international competitions. In the lead-up to the 2024 Olympics, Argentina’s U-23 team demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork during the group stages. Their tactical approach combined with individual brilliance allowed them to secure crucial victories that propelled them into the knockout rounds.
Egypt’s performance
Egypt has also made a strong showing in this tournament. Historically known for its passionate football culture, Egypt’s U-23 team has been impressive in their matches leading up to the knockout phase. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, they have managed to outplay their opponents through strategic gameplay and resilience. Their advancement signifies not only their current form but also reflects the growing investment in youth football within the country.
Morocco’s success
Morocco’s qualification for the knockout stage is another highlight of this tournament. The Moroccan U-23 team has been recognized for its dynamic playing style and tactical discipline. They have faced tough competition but managed to secure their spot through hard-fought matches that showcased their determination and skill on the field. This achievement is particularly significant as it underscores Morocco’s commitment to developing football at all levels.
