BTN News: The Olympic Games are always exciting, but the quarterfinal match between Argentina and France is special. This game is more than just another match; it is a battle of pride and revenge. The Argentine team, fresh from their World Cup victory, faces the host nation, France, in Bordeaux. Both teams have much to prove. Argentina wants to keep making history, and France wants to settle old scores.
Argentina and France will clash on Friday at 4 PM local time in Bordeaux. This game brings back memories of the 2022 World Cup final. For Argentina, this match is a chance to continue their winning streak. For France, it is a chance to get even. The Albiceleste’s recent success, including their World Cup win, has added tension, especially after a video of Enzo Fernández mocking the French team’s African heritage went viral.
Enzo Fernández, who is not at the Olympics, has apologized for his actions. Still, French fans have been hard on Argentine athletes across different sports. The rugby sevens team faced the worst of it. Despite this, Argentine coach Javier Mascherano stays focused on the game. He emphasizes the need to concentrate on what they can control.
The match between Argentina and France came earlier than expected because Argentina lost to Morocco in their opening game. That match was chaotic. Moroccan fans invaded the pitch and threw objects at the Argentine bench. The game was stopped for two hours and then continued in an empty stadium. Argentina’s equalizer was disallowed by VAR, leading to formal protests from Argentina.
Despite these setbacks, Argentine forward Julián Álvarez remains positive. He says they must be ready to face any opponent to reach the final. The Argentine squad is strong, with veterans like Nicolás Otamendi, Gerónimo Rulli, and Thiago Almada determined to prove their strength.
France, led by Thierry Henry, has been very strong in the tournament. They finished the group stage with a perfect record and no goals conceded. However, facing Argentina in the quarterfinals is a big challenge. Henry focuses on the match itself and respects the South American team’s aggressive and dominant style of play.
Henry, who knows Mascherano from their Barcelona days, understands how hard the upcoming match will be. He praises the balance of youth and experience in the Argentine team. He acknowledges their recent successes and the skill of their coach. Both teams are preparing carefully, with the possibility of extra time and penalties if the match is tied after 90 minutes.
As the world watches, the quarterfinal clash between Argentina and France promises to be a memorable game. Both teams are ready to give their best, making this a match that fans will remember for a long time.
