Spain defeated host nation France 5-3 in extra time to win gold in the men’s football event at the ongoing Paris 2024 Olympics.
The pulsating encounter at the Parc des Princes stadium on Friday saw France claw back from two goals down to level at 3-3 and force extra time. However, Spain regrouped to score in each half of extra time, sealing a deserved victory.
This gold medal marks Spain’s first in Olympic men’s football in 34 years, since their 1992 triumph. France took an early lead in the 11th minute through Enzo Millot, but Spain roared back with three goals in ten minutes to stun their hosts.
A brace from Barcelona’s Fermín López and a curling free kick from Álex Baena put La Roja’s under-23 team on track for a comfortable victory.
However, France, coached by Thierry Henry, staged a late comeback through Maghnes Akliouche and Jean-Philippe Mateta’s 93rd-minute penalty, forcing an additional 30 minutes.
Spain prevailed with two well-taken goals from substitute Sergio Camello Perez, sending the country’s contingent into wild celebrations.
Spain’s latest victory at the Olympics continues the country’s recent success in football, adding to their men’s European Championship title, women’s World Cup trophy, and men’s under-19 European title.
