Paris Olympics 2024: Spain secures gold in men's football with thrilling extra time win
Xtra Time Web Desk: Spain clinched the gold medal in men’s football at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a dramatic 5-3 victory over hosts France in a pulsating final at Parc des Princes on Friday. Sergio Camello emerged as the hero, scoring twice in extra time to seal the win.
The match was a rollercoaster, with Spain initially taking a 3-1 lead thanks to goals from Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez and Alex Baena. However, France mounted a fierce comeback, with Enzo Millot, Maghnes Akliouche, and Jean-Philippe Mateta leveling the score and sending the game to extra time.
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In the 100th minute, Camello, who had come on as a substitute in the 83rd minute, lifted the ball over French goalkeeper Guillaume Restes to regain the lead for Spain. He struck again in the first minute of stoppage time, cementing Spain’s victory and ending France’s hopes of winning gold for the first time since Los Angeles 1984.
The win marked Spain’s first Olympic gold in men’s football since Barcelona 1992, ending a run of dominance by Latin American nations in recent Olympics. Coach Thierry Henry praised his team’s performance despite the defeat, highlighting their spirited effort.
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The victory also completed a golden summer for Spanish soccer, following the senior team’s triumph in the European Championship last month. Camello's decisive goals were celebrated wildly by the Spanish squad, making him a national hero and adding a memorable chapter to Spain's football history.