Jean-Philippe Mateta delivered a crucial performance for France, scoring twice as they came from behind to defeat 10-man Egypt 3-1 after extra time in the men’s Olympic football semi-final. With this victory, Thierry Henry’s side is assured of their first medal in the tournament in 40 years. They will face Spain in the final at the Parc des Princes on Friday at 17:00 BST.
The match began with a setback for the French team as Mahmoud Saber gave Egypt the lead, scoring from close range in Lyon. Despite this early blow, France remained persistent. Mateta, 27, leveled the match in the dying moments of regular time, converting a pass from Michael Olise to force the game into extra time.
France capitalized on Egypt’s misfortune when Omar Fayed received a second yellow card, reducing his team to ten men. Fayed’s first booking occurred during second-half stoppage time when he protested a penalty appeal that was ultimately overturned after a VAR review. With the numerical advantage, Mateta headed France into the lead just nine minutes into extra time.
Michael Olise sealed the victory with a late goal, rounding off a decisive performance that ensured France’s place in the final. Meanwhile, Egypt will now face Morocco in the bronze-medal match, scheduled to take place in Nantes on Thursday at 16:00. This victory marks a significant milestone for France, as they aim for gold in their historic encounter with Spain.
