According to reports, a heated rivalry between France and Argentina exploded onto the pitch as the hosts secured a 1-0 victory in the 2024 Paris Olympic football quarterfinals.
Jean-Philippe Mateta’s early goal was the difference-maker, enough to send France into the semifinals, where they will now face Egypt.
2024 Paris Olympics: France and Argentina rivalry reignited
The match was unsurprisingly tense from the onset, given the fierce rivalry that exists between both nations – one which was ignited by a controversial video in which Argentina football players were seen making offensive chants directed at French players of African descent.
Yesterday appeared to be France’s turn to get their own pound of flesh as the host crowd made sure the atmosphere was unwelcoming for the Argentines, with echoes of boos erupting when the South American nation’s national anthem was sung.
The animosity reached a boiling point after the final whistle as things got uglier, transcending into a full-blown brawl involving about 30 men from both sides and staff from both sides, also extending into the tunnel.
Police were deployed to prevent further clashes among fans before the French players reemerged to celebrate their victory with the fired-up home crowd.
France will now look to maintain their momentum as they face Egypt in the semifinals.
