Chaos Erupts at Olympic Soccer Match as Argentina Cries Foul

The opening match of the men’s Olympic soccer tournament between Argentina and Morocco descended into chaos, leaving the Argentine team and its federation crying foul.

The match was suspended for nearly two hours after Moroccan fans stormed the field, throwing bottles in protest of a late Argentine goal that was later overturned by VAR. Argentina ultimately lost 2-1.

Argentine coach Javier Mascherano didn’t mince words, calling the scene a “scandal” and emphasizing that “this isn’t a neighborhood tournament, these are the Olympic Games.” The Argentine Football Association (AFA) President Claudio Tapia echoed this sentiment, describing the events as “something that makes no sense and that goes against the competition rules.” The AFA has since filed a formal protest with FIFA.

Adding to the team’s woes, their training base was robbed before the game, with midfielder Thiago Almada’s watch among the stolen items.

Paris Organizers Respond

Paris organizers are working to understand the events and identify appropriate actions. Security officials maintain that while the situation was alarming for the Argentine players, there was no security risk to players or spectators. They also clarified that while a flare-like object was thrown onto the field, no firecrackers were used.

Moroccan Player Condemns Fan Behavior

Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi expressed his disappointment with the unruly fans on social media, stating that such behavior has no place in football.

Confusion and Controversy Over the Match

The events surrounding the match’s suspension and the overturned goal added to the confusion. Initially, FIFA’s official website declared a 2-2 draw, but it later emerged that the game had been suspended and the final minutes were yet to be played.

Mascherano expressed his frustration with the situation, saying, “The game was suspended because of security. At no moment did they talk to us about any revision (of the play).”

Argentina Looks Ahead

Despite the chaotic start and the loss, Argentina, a two-time gold medalist and pre-tournament favorite, is determined to focus on the remaining games. Mascherano acknowledged the anger and disappointment but emphasized the need to move forward and channel that energy into future matches.

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