Match Background: Argentina Faces Morocco
Olympic football kicked off in Saint-Etienne with confusion and chaos as Argentina appeared to score a late equalizer against Morocco in their Group B fixture. The match took an unexpected turn when Cristian Medina netted in the 16th minute of injury time, seemingly salvaging a 2-2 draw for Argentina.
Fan Chaos: Pitch Invasion and Violence
The goal sparked a violent reaction from the stands, with fans storming the pitch and throwing bottles, cups, and firecrackers at the players. The players flinched and quickly headed down the tunnel at Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium.
Suspension and Confusion
Once off the pitch, players discovered the match had not officially ended but was suspended by officials, as the full-time whistle had not been blown. The Olympics website showed the match as “interrupted,” while many media outlets prematurely reported it as full-time.
Match Resumption: VAR Decision and Final Minutes
More than an hour later, it was confirmed that the teams would return to the pitch to play the final three minutes behind closed doors. Players were given 20 minutes to warm up. During the suspension, Argentina’s equalizer was ruled out by a VAR review, meaning Morocco resumed the match leading 2-1. The remaining seconds saw no further drama, and Morocco secured a shock victory.
Pre-Match Tensions: Enzo Fernandez Controversy
Argentina faced boos from spectators throughout the match amid the controversy surrounding Enzo Fernandez’s video, labeled “racist and discriminatory” by the French Football Federation. Despite fielding recent Copa America winners Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Otamendi, and Geronimo Rulli, Argentina struggled to display their best play.
Match Highlights: Goals and Key Moments
- Soufiane Rahimi: Put Morocco ahead just before halftime with an assist from Achraf Hakimi.
- Rahimi’s Second Goal: Scored from the penalty spot in the 49th minute, doubling Morocco’s lead.
- Giuliano Simeone: Pulled one back for Argentina in the 68th minute.
- Cristian Medina’s Disallowed Goal: Scored in the 16th minute of stoppage time, later ruled out by VAR.
Aftermath: Poor Start for Paris 2024
The chaotic ending marred the start of the Olympics, with the confusion and violence reflecting poorly on the hosts. Argentina’s gold medal winners from 2004 and 2008 failed to make an impact, and the match’s conclusion highlighted significant organizational and security issues.