Morocco triumphed over Argentina 2-1 in the Paris Olympics football opener. A controversial VAR decision ruled out Argentina’s last-minute equalizer after a two-hour delay due to fan disruptions. Morocco’s victory was sealed by goals from Soufiane Rahimi, despite Argentina's fierce comeback attempt.
In a thrilling start to the Paris Olympics football event, Morocco emerged victorious against Argentina with a 2-1 win. The match, held in Saint-Etienne, was marked by dramatic moments and a decisive video assistant referee (VAR) decision.
Morocco took an early lead with Soufiane Rahimi scoring just before halftime. Rahimi then doubled the advantage by converting a penalty six minutes into the second half. Argentina fought back, with Giuliano Simeone scoring in the 68th minute, setting the stage for a tense finale.
As the match approached its conclusion, Argentina's Cristian Medina appeared to have secured a last-gasp equalizer. However, the game was paused for two hours due to Moroccan fans invading the pitch and throwing objects, even launching a flare at the Argentine bench. After the delay, a VAR review ruled Medina’s goal offside, preserving Morocco's lead.
The centre referee, Glen Nyberg, added fifteen minutes of stoppage time due to various interruptions. During this period, the Moroccan goalkeeper made several crucial saves, and Medina’s disallowed goal added to the match's controversy.
Elsewhere in Group C, Iraq's U23 team also secured three points, narrowly defeating Ukraine 2-1. Meanwhile, Egypt's U23 team, making their 13th Olympic appearance, was held to a goalless draw by the Dominican Republic in their debut at La Beaujoire Stadium in Nantes.
