In a thrilling start to the 2024 Paris Olympics, host nation France delivered a stunning performance by defeating Team USA 3-0 in their first game. The electrifying atmosphere at the Marseille Stadium was evident as the French team showcased remarkable skill and determination. With a blend of tactical brilliance and sheer athleticism, France secured a memorable victory, setting the tone for an exhilarating Olympic journey on their home turf.
Pre-Match Expectations and Lineups
Going into the game, France was the heavy favorite to win, and it was no surprise given their storied history in international soccer. However, Team USA was not to be underestimated, featuring a roster with the likes of Wolfsburg forward Kevin Paredes and the Venezia connection of Tanner Tessmann and Gianluca Busio. Despite having a great impact in the pre-Olympic matches, Griffin Yow was on the bench.
France's lineup included newly signed Bayern Munich talent Michael Olise and veteran Alexandre Lacazette. Under the leadership of legendary coach Thierry Henry, who previously managed MLS side CF Montreal, the French team came into the Olympics with high expectations, having competed in 13 previous Olympic Games.
The first half was a quiet yet intense battle, with France dominating possession and taking seven shots on target compared to USA's three. Both teams showed disciplined defense, with yellow cards issued to Kilian Sildillia and Kevin Paredes. Jean-Philippe Mateta came close to opening the scoring for France in the closing minutes of the half, while American Paxten Aaronson was the most active but unable to find the net. The first half ended leveled at 0-0.
The second half saw more action and France taking control. The US almost broke the tied game in the 59th minute when Djordje Mihailovic hit the crossbar, leaving French goalkeeper Guillaume Restes flat-footed. However, France quickly turned the game in their favor. In the 61st minute, Alexandre Lacazette scored the first goal, assisted by Michael Olise, placing the ball in the lower corner past USA keeper Patrick Schulte.
Eight minutes later, Michael Olise doubled France's lead with a brilliant shot from outside the box, putting the Americans in a tough spot. Despite efforts by the US, including substitutions by coach Marko Mitrovic, they couldn't break through the French defense.
France sealed their victory with a late header by Loic Bade in the 85th minute, solidifying their 3-0 win on home soil.
"Some days everything goes in your favor, some days it doesn't go," said US coach Marko Mitrovic in a post-game interview, leaving his thoughts about the match.
Despite the loss, the top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage, giving the Americans hope for redemption. Team USA will face New Zealand on Saturday night in Marseille, while France will take on Guinea in Nice.
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