Who are Africa’s past Olympic games football gold medalists as Morocco and Egypt soar in Paris
Morocco and Egypt aim to emulate Africa’s past Olympic success as they reach Paris 2024 semi-finals. This Article looks at past African gold winners and the chances of another winner from Africa.
As the 2024 Paris Olympic Games head into the crucial stages, African football fans have a reason to celebrate. Morocco and Egypt have both secured spots in the men’s football semi-finals, marking significant milestones in their Olympic history.
Morocco’s Historic Run
Morocco has made history by reaching the Olympic men’s football semi-finals for the first time. Their journey to this stage included a resounding 4-0 victory over the United States at the Parc des Princes. The team’s dominant performance saw Soufiane Rahimi, Ilias Akhomach, and Achraf Hakimi contributing to the scoreline, with Mehdi Maouhoub sealing the win with a late penalty.
Morocco is set to face Spain in the semi-finals, following Spain’s 3-0 win over Japan. This marks a historic moment for Moroccan football, as they aim to secure a place in the final.
Egypt’s Return to the Semi-Finals After 60 Years
Egypt, on the other hand, has reached the semi-finals for the first time in 60 years. The Pharaohs advanced by defeating Paraguay on penalties at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille. Despite a cautious approach during the match, Egypt’s resilience shone through as they overcame a 1-0 deficit with a late goal from Ibrahim Adel and secured their place with a crucial penalty shootout win.
Egypt will now face either France or Argentina in the semi-finals, adding to the excitement of their Olympic journey.
Africa’s Previous Olympic Triumphs
Africa has a proud history in Olympic football, with Nigeria and Cameroon being the standout champions. Nigeria’s remarkable run to gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics is legendary.
Under the leadership of Nwankwo Kanu, the Nigerian team overcame Brazil in a dramatic semi-final and secured victory over Argentina in the final.
Cameroon followed in Nigeria’s footsteps with a gold medal at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. Led by a young Samuel Eto’o, Cameroon defeated Brazil with a golden goal and later triumphed over Spain in a thrilling penalty shootout.
A Bright Future for African Football
With Morocco and Egypt now in the semi-finals, there is a strong sense of optimism about Africa’s chances at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The continent’s teams have shown they can compete at the highest level, and their performances have set the stage for a potential gold medal victory.
My Thoughts
“Having two African teams in the last four of the Olympic football tournament is a testament to the strength and talent within the continent. Both Morocco and Egypt have shown they can compete with the best, and there’s a real chance one of them could clinch gold in Paris,” .
Additionally, “Based on their performances so far, Morocco appears to be the most likely to win the gold medal. Their dominant display and tactical prowess put them in a strong position, much like Nigeria in 1996 and Cameroon in 2000. Morocco could be the next team to add to Africa’s Olympic gold medal count.” – Uduak Oscar 2024.
