In a commanding performance at the Parc des Princes, Morocco outclassed the USA to win their quarterfinal clash 4-0 and advance to the semifinals of the Olympic men’s football tournament. Captain Achraf Hakimi was among the scorers, sealing a dominant display for the North African side.
A packed and vocal Moroccan crowd provided strong support as Morocco showcased their superiority from the outset. Soufiane Rahimi opened the scoring from the penalty spot just before the half-hour mark after being fouled by Nathan Harriel. Rahimi, currently the tournament’s top scorer with five goals in four games, displayed composure to convert the chance.
The USA struggled to respond, and Morocco doubled their lead in the 63rd minute. Abde Ezzalzouli’s brilliant play on the left flank set up Ilias Akhomach, who slotted in at the near post. Playing on his Paris Saint-Germain home ground, Hakimi added a third goal with 20 minutes left, further deflating the American side.
A second penalty, this time by substitute Mehdi Maouhoub in stoppage time following a VAR review for a handball by Harriel, wrapped up the convincing win.
Morocco, having topped their group ahead of Argentina, now look like serious contenders for the gold medal. They advance to a semifinal on Monday in Marseille, where they will face either Japan or Spain.
The sizeable Moroccan community in France has turned out in large numbers to back their team, which came to the Games after winning last year’s Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations. With a strong lineup featuring one of the world’s best fullbacks in Hakimi, dynamic wingers like Akhomach and Ezzalzouli, and the prolific Rahimi in attack, Morocco is a formidable side aiming for Olympic glory.
The Olympic men’s football final will take place at the Parc des Princes next Friday, August 9.
- Tags: Morocco, Paris 2024 Olympic Games, USA
