The Men's Olympic Football Tournament at the Paris 2024 Games will feature a highly anticipated Group B clash between Argentina Under-23s and Morocco Under-23s on July 24, 2024, at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Etienne.
This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams aiming to make a strong start in the tournament.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Argentina Under-23s
Argentina, a traditional powerhouse in Olympic football, is making its 10th appearance at the Games.
They have a rich history of success, having won gold medals in 2004 and 2008. However, their performance at Tokyo 2020 was disappointing as they failed to advance from the group stage.
Under the guidance of former Liverpool and Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano, Argentina is determined to reclaim its glory. The team has shown mixed form in recent friendlies, securing a 5-0 win over Petrus Flo but suffering a 1-0 loss to Guinea.
With several World Cup winners in their squad, including Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Otamendi, Argentina is one of the favourites to win the gold medal.
Morocco Under-23s
Morocco is making its eighth appearance in the Olympic Games, the first since London 2012. They qualified for Paris 2024 by winning the 2023 Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite some managerial changes, with Tarik Sektioui taking over from Issame Charai, Morocco has shown promise in their recent matches, including a 2-2 draw with Belgium and a 2-0 victory over Wales.
Sektioui's squad is filled with talented players such as Achraf Hakimi of Paris Saint-Germain and Benjamin Bouchouari of Saint-Etienne, making them a formidable opponent.
Team News
Argentina Under-23s
Argentina's squad features experienced players like Otamendi, along with promising talents such as Thiago Almada and Santiago Hezze.
Morocco Under-23s
Morocco's lineup will be strengthened by the presence of Achraf Hakimi and other key players.
Prediction
This match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams having strong squads.
However, Argentina's experience and the presence of seasoned players might give them a slight edge.