Overview
The men’s football tournament at the 2024 Summer Olympics features a mix of young talent and experienced players in an under-23 format with three overage players allowed per team. Group B includes one of the tournament favorites, Argentina, alongside Morocco, Iraq, and Ukraine. The matches will take place across three venues in France: Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Étienne, Stade de Lyon in Décines-Charpieu, and Stade de Nice in Nice.
Group B Teams and Schedule
Schedule
Wednesday, July 24th
- Argentina vs. Morocco –14:00
- Iraq vs. Ukraine –18:00
Saturday, July 27th
- Argentina vs. Iraq – 9:00 a.m. Eastern, 6:00 a.m. Pacific
- Ukraine vs. Morocco – 11:00 a.m. Eastern, 8:00 a.m. Pacific
Tuesday, July 30th
- Ukraine vs. Argentina – 16:00
- Morocco vs. Iraq – 16:00
Team Profiles
Argentina
Background: Argentina, a powerhouse in international football, has a strong tradition at the Olympics, winning gold in 2004 and 2008. They boast a deep pool of talent, with many players performing at top domestic and international clubs.
Recent Record: Argentina qualified for the Olympics with an undefeated record in the 2024 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament. They secured their spot by defeating Brazil 1-0 in the final stage. Recent friendlies included mixed results, with a notable win against Paraguay and a loss to Guinea.
Odds of Winning Group: Favorite
One to Watch: Thiago Almada, an attacking midfielder/winger, co-led the CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament in scoring. Known for his quick footwork and incisive passing, Almada recently transferred from Atlanta United to Botafogo.
Morocco
Background: Morocco returns to the Olympics for the first time since 2012. The national program is on the rise, highlighted by a fourth-place finish at the 2022 World Cup. Tarik Sektioui was appointed manager following poor performances in friendlies.
Recent Record: Morocco won the 2023 U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, with victories over Guinea, Ghana, and Congo in the group stage. They continued their strong form with wins against Mali and Egypt in the knockout stages. Recent friendlies included a win over Wales and a draw with Belgium.
Odds of Winning Group: In the Running
One to Watch: Soufiane Rahimi, a 28-year-old forward, was the MVP of the Asian Football Confederation Champions League. Known for his dribbling and physical play, Rahimi will likely play as an inverted left winger.
Iraq
Background: Iraq impressed with a fourth-place finish at the 2004 Athens Games. Returning to the Olympics for the first time since 2016, the team is known for its resilience and counter-attacking style under manager Radhi Shenaishil.
Recent Record: Iraq finished third at the 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup, securing their Olympic spot. Their campaign included a loss to Thailand and wins over Tajikistan and Saudi Arabia. Recent friendlies included a defeat to Egypt.
Odds of Winning Group: In the Running
One to Watch: Ali Jasim, the top scorer at the 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup, is a versatile attacker known for his technical skills and pace. He was instrumental in helping Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya finish second in the Iraq Stars League.
Ukraine
Background: Ukraine is making its Olympic debut after a strong performance at the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship. The team, led by Ruslan Rotan, comprises mainly domestic league players with a few based abroad.
Recent Record: Ukraine qualified for the Olympics by reaching the semifinals of the 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship. They also won the Maurice Revello Tournament, defeating teams like Italy and Japan. Recent friendlies ended in draws with Egypt and Paraguay.
Odds of Winning Group: In the Running
One to Watch: Maksym Talovierov, a centre-back from LASK Linz, is noted for his aerial dominance and long-range distribution. His mobility and defensive skills make him a key player for Ukraine.
Group B Outlook
Group B is highly competitive, with Argentina being the clear favorite due to their historical success and depth of talent. Morocco, Iraq, and Ukraine all have strong squads with the potential to advance to the knockout stages, making this group one of the most intriguing to watch in the tournament.