HOSTS France opened their Paris 2024 Olympics men’s football event campaign with a 3-0 victory over the United States of America tonight in Marseille, while Africa’s three other representatives, Mali, Guinea and Egypt, could not emulate Morocco, who beat Argentina 2-1 in the early kick-off.
Captain Alexandre Lacazette, Michael Olise and Loic Bade struck for France, coached by Thierry Henry, as they cruised to the top of Group A.
After a goalless first half of few opportunities, former Arsenal striker Lacazette found the breakthrough for the hosts one minute after the hour mark with a low shot from range.
Olise, who has Nigerian heritage and was eligible for the Super Eagles through his father, doubled France’s lead eight minutes later, and Balde sealed the victory five minutes from time.
Also in Group A today, Guinea were beaten 2-1 by New Zealand in Nice.
Matthew Garbett and Ben Waine netted for New Zealand, with Amadou Diawara scoring Guinea’s only goal.
In Group D tonight, Mali’s players scored both goals as they drew 1-1 with Israel at the Parc de Princes in Paris.
Hamidou Diallo inadvertently gave Israel the lead with an own goal in the 56th minute, while Cheicka Doumbia equalised for the West Africans seven minutes later.
Earlier in the afternoon, Egypt got their campaign off to a goalless start, drawing 0-0 with Dominican Republic in Group C.
