Spain edge France in eight-goal thriller to win Olympics football gold

Spain defeated hosts France 5-3 after 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 for 3-3 and force extra-time.

However, Spain regrouped to score in each half in extra time to seal a deserved victory.

Gold for Spain is the country’s first in Olympics 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 sent La Roja’s under-23 group en route to a calm victory.

However, France, coached by Thierry Henry, staged a late comeback through Maghnes Akliouche and Jean-Philipe Mateta’s 93rd-minute penalty to force an additional 30 minutes.

Spain, however, 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. They also hold the men’s European Championship title, women’s World Cup trophy, and men’s under-19 European title.