Controversy mars Morocco vs Argentina game, Argentina loses 2-1

KATHMANDU: Controversy has arisen in the first men’s football match of the Paris Olympics 2024.

In an intensely captivating game on Wednesday evening, Argentina’s last-minute goal was controversially disallowed, escalating tensions.

Argentina’s Cristian Medina had equalized in the 16th minute of injury time during the second half.

Additionally, there were reports of bottles being thrown onto the field from the stands, with some spectators entering the field. The situation spiraled out of control, leading the referee to decide the game could proceed, but both teams eventually left the field. However, the match was not concluded.

The game was interrupted for nearly 2 hours.

After fan unrest subsided, a decision was made to play the remaining 3 minutes of the match in an empty stadium.

Morocco was declared the winner of this match with a 2-1 scoreline.

Following the game, Argentine coach Javier Mascherano criticized the decision, stating that it had brought disgrace to football and turned the match into a circus. Argentina’s superstar player Lionel Messi also expressed his disbelief at the incident.

Afterwards, Argentina is scheduled to play against Iraq in Group B on Saturday, while Morocco will face Ukraine on the same day.

In other games held on Wednesday, Japan defeated Paraguay 5-0 in Group D, Spain defeated Uzbekistan 2-1 in Group C, and Egypt and the Dominican Republic played a goalless draw in Group B. In Group E, Iraq defeated Ukraine 2-1.