Spain and Japan have advanced to the knockout stages, while Argentina made a strong comeback in Olympic football. After their opening loss, Argentina defeated Iraq 3-1 on Saturday. Combined with Ukraine’s dramatic 2-1 win over Morocco, this victory levelled all teams in Group B at three points each.
Argentina took an early lead in Lyon, with Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez setting up Thiago Almada for the opening goal. Iraq equalized just before the half, but Argentina regained the lead shortly after the hour, thanks to Luciano Gondou’s header. Near the match’s end, Kevin Zenon assisted Ezequiel Fernandez, who scored from a distance.
Argentina’s coach, Javier Mascherano, emphasised playing quality football rather than dwelling on past issues.
In other matches, Ukraine clinched a late victory over Morocco, and Spain secured their quarter-final spot by defeating the Dominican Republic 3-1 in Bordeaux. Spain capitalized on a man advantage after the Dominican Republic’s captain was sent off. Alex Baena and Miguel Gutierrez scored, ensuring Spain’s progression after Egypt’s win over Uzbekistan.
France also edged closer to the quarters with a narrow win over Guinea, needing just a point against New Zealand to advance. Meanwhile, Japan secured their quarter-final spot with a late win over Mali, surviving a missed penalty by Mali in stoppage time.
In a thrilling match in Paris, Paraguay overcame Israel 4-2. Marcelo Fernandez scored twice, including during stoppage time, to seal the win for the 2004 silver medalists.
