Jean-Philippe Mateta header scored the winning goal in extra time France beat Egypt 3-1 in the Olympic men’s soccer semi-finals on Monday.
A dramatic finish set off a world-class final between hosts France and Spainthe one who defeated Maroc 2-1 earlier in the day, at the Parc des Princes in Paris on Friday.
“This is my dream night,” said Mateta. “But I need one more night to keep dreaming. This is for the fans, who kept cheering even when we were behind.”
Egypt took the lead through Mahmoud Saber in the 62nd minute at the Stade de Lyon, and France had three attempts before finally finding the breakthrough when Mateta equalised in the 83rd minute after Michael Olise put him in that area.
Shortly after extra time began, Egypt’s Omar Fayed was shown a second yellow card and sent off. France took advantage of the opportunity and Mateta scored his second goal of the match with a powerful header at the back post.
Olise added a third in the second half of extra time to seal victory for the hosts, who have won every game they have played under coach Thierry Henry at this year’s Olympics. France are looking for a second gold medal for the footballing powerhouse after winning in Los Angeles in 1984.
“What a great night! It’s all down to the players. Egypt played very well today but we never stopped trying to win and the fans pushed us forward,” said coach Henry.
“We have won the medal but there is still one step left to win the first football gold medal in 40 years. Now Spain is waiting for us in the final and it will be a big match.”
Egypt are looking ahead to the bronze medal match against regional rivals Morocco in Nantes on Thursday.
This article uses information from The Associated Press.
