By Moroccan Atlas Cubs to Make Olympic Debut Against Argentina in Paris 2024
The Moroccan Atlas Cubs are set to make their debut in the men’s football tournament at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Here’s everything you need to know about their highly anticipated clash against Argentina!
Match Date and Venue
Mark your calendars! The match between Argentina and Morocco is scheduled for Wednesday, July 24, at 3 PM French time. This will be the opening match of Group B in the Olympic Games.
The showdown will take place at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Etienne, a renowned venue that promises an electrifying atmosphere for this Olympic bout.
Ticket Information
For fans eager to witness the action live, tickets can be purchased from the official Olympic website at tickets.paris2024.org. Prices vary by category: €70 for First class (sold out), €50 for Category A (sold out), €40 for Category B, €30 for Category C, €24 for Category D, and €15 for special offers.
Match Analysis
Starting strong in a short-format competition like the Olympics is crucial. Both the Atlas Cubs and Argentina will be aiming to secure three points to kick off their campaign in Group B, which also includes Ukraine and Iraq.
Morocco’s coach, Tarik Sektioui, has named an 18-player squad for the Olympics. Key players include goalkeeper Munir El Kajoui, right-back Achraf Hakimi, midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, and winger Ez Abde, all of whom were part of the 2022 World Cup squad. Defensive midfielders Oussama El Azzouzi and Amir Richardson, who participated in the last Africa Cup of Nations, will also bolster the team. Additionally, seasoned players like Soufiane Rahimi, Ilias Akhomach, and Eliesse Ben Seghir will join the squad, along with local favorite Benjamn Bouchaouari of Saint-Etienne.
On the Argentine side, notable absences include Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Emiliano Martinez. However, coach Javier Mascherano can count on Manchester City’s striker Julian Alvarez, Benfica veteran Nicolás Otamendi, and Ajax Amsterdam’s goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli. These players are currently participating in the Copa América, having just secured a spot in the final by defeating Canada 2-0. Emerging talents like Giuliano Simeone, son of Atletico Madrid’s coach, and Lucas Beltran of Fiorentina, add depth to the roster.
Historical Context
Argentina, having clinched Olympic gold in 2004 and 2008, appears well-prepared for another title run. The challenge lies ahead for the Moroccan Atlas Cubs, who are making their ninth Olympic appearance and aim to surpass their best finish of 8th place in 1972.
- Stay tuned for a thrilling match that promises to deliver high-stakes football as both teams vie to leave their mark on Olympic history.
- @afa | @ActuFoot_
