As Morocco and the USA prepare to face off in the first quarter-final of the Paris 2024 Olympics, football fans are in for a thrilling encounter at Parc des Princes on August 2, 2024. This match is not just about advancing to the semi-finals but also about making history and cementing legacies. Here’s a comprehensive preview of the game, including key stats, team news, and potential lineups.
Match Details
- Date: August 2, 2024
- Time: 2 PM UK / 3 PM CET / 9 AM ET / 6 AM PT
- Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris
Team Overview
Morocco U23s:
- Group Stage Performance: Topped Group B with two wins
- Recent Form: They stunned Argentina in their opening game and clinched a place in the knockout stages with a 3-0 win over Iraq.
- Coach: Tarik Sektioui
- Key Players: Top Scorer Soufiane Rahimi, Forward Abde Ezzalzouli, and Midfielder Amir Richardson
USA U23s:
- Group Stage Performance: Finished second in Group A
- Recent Form: Defeated Guinea 3-0 to secure a quarter-final spot; notable wins against New Zealand and Guinea.
- Coach: Marko Mitrovic
- Standout Players: Midfielder Kevin Paredes, Midfielder Djordje Mihailovic, and Defender Miles Robinson
Also Read – Morocco U23 Olympic Football Team
USA Olympic Football Team U23
Key Stats and Insights
- USA’s Historical Struggle:
- The USA has not made it past the group stage since the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Their advancement to the quarter-finals this year marks a significant milestone after 24 years.
- Morocco’s Impressive Run:
- Morocco emerged at the top of Group B, overcoming both Argentina and Iraq.. Their solid performance positions them as strong contenders for an Olympic medal.
- Top Performers:
- Morocco: Soufiane Rahimi has emerged as a key player, netting four goals throughout the tournament. Abde Ezzalzouli and Amir Richardson have also contributed significantly.
- USA: Kevin Paredes netted two goals in their last group match. Djordje Mihailovic has been influential in midfield, particularly with his free-kick against Guinea.
- Team Form:
- Morocco: W L W (Win against Argentina, Loss against Ukraine, Win against Iraq)
- USA: L W W (Loss against France, Wins against New Zealand, Wins against Guinea)
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Morocco:
- Possible Starting XI: Mohamedi; Hakimi, Boukamir, El Azzouzi, El Ouahdi; Targhalline, El Khannouss, Richardson; Akhomach, Rahimi, Ezzalzouli
- Injury Concerns: None reported
USA:
- Possible Starting XI: Schulte; Tolkin, Zimmerman, Robinson, Harriel; Busio, Tessmann, Mihajlovic; Paredes, McGuire, Aaronson
- Injury Concerns: Gianluca Busio (leg injury) – status to be confirmed
Key Battles
- Soufiane Rahimi vs. USA’s Defense:
- Rahimi’s goal-scoring form will be a significant threat to the USA. How well the American defense, led by Miles Robinson and Walker Zimmerman, can contain him will be crucial.
- Midfield Duel:
- The battle in midfield between Morocco’s Amir Richardson and the USA’s Djordje Mihailovic will be pivotal. Both players have shown creativity and goal-scoring ability.
- Set Pieces:
- USA’s Djordje Mihailovic has showcased his skill with free-kicks. Morocco will need to be cautious about conceding set pieces in dangerous areas.
Predictions
- USA’s Momentum: With a resurgent form following their group-stage comeback, the USA has the momentum and morale boost needed for this crucial match.
- Morocco’s Consistency: Morocco’s consistency and attacking prowess make them formidable opponents. Their ability to score early goals could set the tone for the match.
With both teams competing for a semi-final berth, fans should anticipate a hard-fought clash at Parc des Princes. The match will not only be a test of skill and strategy but also a display of determination and resilience. Stay tuned for a football spectacle as Morocco and the USA vie for Olympic glory.
