France defeated Argentina to go to the Olympics semi-finals.

The men's football quarter-finals of the 2024 Olympic Games begin on Friday in France.

France defeats Argentina to keep home hopes alive.

France advanced to the semi-finals against Egypt following a tight and dramatic 1-0 victory over Argentina, thanks in large part to Thierry Henry's team's excellent defensive effort. Les Bleus seized the early lead at the noisy Stade de Bordeaux, thanks to an old Crystal Palace connection: Michael Olise's corner was met by a stunning header from his former club teammate, Jean-Phillippe Mateta.

Argentina struggled to find their rhythm as the hosts maintained their fast start to the delight of their fans. Mateta nearly turned provider just before the 20-minute mark, sending the ball into the area, but the Argentines scrambled it away.

Javier Mascherano's team's first chance came from Kevin Zenón, whose left-footed shot dribbled wide from the right side of the box. Giuliano Simeone had a fantastic opportunity to equal things up in the 35th minute, sending a header miles wide after the ball fell to him unmarked at the back post.

Argentina's play improved progressively as the half progressed, but France was willing to counter, with Olise, unsurprisingly, their most effective outlet. Manu Koné surged into the Argentine half, finding Joris Chotard, who lost the ball with a sloppy touch.

Argentina continued to dominate the ball but struggled to get through France's defensive wall. With less than 10 minutes to go, Olise thought he had doubled France's lead by turning in the box and hitting home via a deflection. The goal prompted manager Thierry Henry to race down the touchline and join his team in their celebrations.

However, following a lengthy VAR review, Maghnes Akliouche was found to have committed a foul in the build-up, prompting boos from the home crowd. Argentina maintained the pressure as the game entered 10 minutes of injury time, but the French defense proved nearly impenetrable. Even when they had a chance, Luciano Godou blasted through like Simeone in the first half. France held out to defeat the World Champions and keep their hopes of a home win alive.

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