SPAIN scored two extra-time goals tonight at Parc des Princes to beat hosts France 5-3 in the men’s football final of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
France had fought back from 3-1 down to take the match into extra-time after two late goals, including a stoppage-time penalty by Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Spain substitute Sergio Camello then struck twice in extra-time to earn Spain their first Olympic title since 1992.
France, coached by the legendary Thierry Henry, began the final on a bright note, taking the lead after just 11 minutes through Enzo Millot.
Spain’s response was swift and ruthless though, the Tokyo 2020 losing finalists scoring thrice before the 30th minute.
Barcelona forward Fermin Lopez netted twice, in the 17th and 25th minutes, before Alex Baena made it 3-1 in the 28th minute.
France then mounted an incredible comeback to send the game to extra-time as Maghnes Akliouche pulled a goal back in the 79th before a VAR review awarded the hosts a penalty that Mateta converted in stoppage time.
Camello, who was brought on in the 83rd minute, then took matters into his own hands, netting in the 10th minute of extra-time and sealing the win and gold medal with a cheeky chip after a breakaway with the last kick of the thrilling match.
