Date: August 2, 2024
Time: 8 PM UK / 3 PM ET / 12 PM PT
Venue: Stade Bordeaux-Atlantique
Overview:
The Stade Bordeaux-Atlantique will host an exciting quarter-final matchup in the Paris 2024 Olympic men’s football tournament, as the home team France faces off against the South American powerhouse Argentina. Both teams are poised for a high-stakes encounter as they vie for a place in the semi-finals.
Match Insights:
- France U23:
- Group Stage Performance: Dominated Group A with three consecutive victories. Their campaign featured a 3-0 triumph over the USA, a 2-0 win against Guinea, and a 3-0 defeat of New Zealand.
- Current Form: Perfect record in the group stage (W W W), with a total of seven goals scored and none conceded.
- Historical Context: France’s last Olympic gold came in 1984, and they haven’t been this far in the tournament since 1996.
- Argentina U23:
- Group Stage Performance: Secured their place in the knockout rounds with a 2-0 win over Ukraine, bouncing back from an initial 2-1 loss to Morocco and a 2-0 victory over Iraq.
- Current Form: Two wins, one loss in the group stage (L W W).
- Historical Context: Two-time Olympic gold medalists (2004, 2008). They last advanced past the group stage in 2008.
Related – France Olympic Football Team
Argentina Olympic Football Team
Key Players:
- France:
- Alexandre Lacazette: Captain and experienced forward, crucial in the attack.
- Michael Olise: Rising star with creative prowess, expected to make an impact.
- Jean-Philippe Mateta: Scorer of multiple goals in the group stage, providing key offensive contributions.
- Argentina:
- Thiago Almada: Influential midfielder, scored in both victories during the group stage.
- Julian Alvarez: A crucial forward who was integral to Argentina’s victories in both the 2022 World Cup and the 2024 Copa America.
- Claudio Echeverri: Midfielder known for his goal-scoring ability, crucial in the win over Ukraine.
Team News:
- France:
- Possible Lineup: Restes; Sildillia, Bade, Lukeba, Truffert; Akliouche, Kone, Chotard; Olise; Lacazette, Mateta.
- Changes Expected: Star players like Alexandre Lacazette and Michael Olise are set to return after resting in the final group match.
- Argentina:
- Possible Lineup: Rulli; Lujan, Otamendi, Di Cesare, Soler; Simeone, Fernandez, Medina, Almada; Beltran, Alvarez.
- Key Concerns: Potential fatigue due to lack of rest during the group stage. Lucas Beltran and Julian Alvarez are expected to start in attack.
Prediction:
- France Winning: 55%
- Argentina Winning: 35%
- Draw: 10%
Analysis:
France enters the quarter-finals with a flawless record and a strong defensive setup, while Argentina has shown resilience and attacking quality. Despite Argentina’s notable talent, France’s rested squad and home advantage give them a slight edge. Anticipate a close match, with France likely to just beat Argentina and advance to the semi-finals.
Stay tuned for a thrilling encounter as France and Argentina battle for a semi-final spot in the Paris 2024 Olympic.
