Egypt, Morocco Reach Olympic Football Semis
Egypt and Morocco made history after securing their places in the semi-finals of the men’s football event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, marking the first time two African nations have reached this stage in Olympic football history.
For the first time in Olympic history, two African nations have reached the semi-finals of the men’s football tournament. This achievement highlights the growing strength of African football on the global stage.
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There will be 2 African teams in the Men’s Olympics semi-finals for the first time ever! #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/GOoQt9Kng8
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) August 3, 2024
Egypt 1-1 Paraguay (5-4 on penalties)
In a thrilling quarter-final clash, Egypt defeated Paraguay 5-4 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Diego Gómez had given Paraguay the lead with a well-placed shot in the 71st minute, but Ibrahim Adel’s late header from Zizi’s cross forced the match into extra time.
No goals were scored in extra time and the game was going to be decided by penalties. Egypt’s goalkeeper, Hamza Alaa, made a crucial save while Adel’s successful spot-kick ensured Egypt’s progression to the semi-finals.
Egypt will face hosts France in their semi-final match, also scheduled for Monday in Lyon.
Morocco 4-0 USA
On Friday, Morocco delivered a dominant performance at the Parc des Princes, defeating the USA 4-0 to advance to the semi-finals.
Morocco’s Soufiane Rahimi opened the scoring with a penalty, followed by goals from Ilias Akhomach and captain Achraf Hakimi in the second half. Mehdi Maouhoub then sealed the victory with another penalty in stoppage time after a VAR review.
Morocco’s victory follows an impressive group stage performance where they topped its group ahead of Argentina. They will face Spain in the semi-finals, scheduled for Monday in Marseille.
Monday. #Paris2024 Semi-finals. Two giants. One goal.
Let’s go boys! pic.twitter.com/YROrwzH7q8
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) August 2, 2024
