PARIS: Spain and Morocco have both advanced to the semifinals of the men’s soccer tournament at the Paris Olympics after victories over Japan and the United States, respectively, on Friday.
Spain triumphed 3-0 over Japan, with Fermin Lopez scoring twice—once in each half. Abel Ruiz added the third goal late in the game.
Despite concerns following a group stage loss to Egypt, Spain, the silver medalists from Tokyo 2020, demonstrated their quality against Japan, who had topped their group with three straight wins.
Japan had a goal disallowed in the first half due to a tight offside call reviewed by video assistance.
Morocco also advanced to the semifinals with a commanding 4-0 win over the United States. The match, played at Parc des Princes, saw Soufiane Rahimi and Mehdi Maouhoub each score from the penalty spot, with Ilias Akhomach and Achraf Hakimi adding goals in the second half.
Morocco, having topped their group ahead of Argentina, will face Spain in the semifinals in Marseille on Monday.
The men’s soccer final will be held at Parc des Princes on Friday, August 9. The Moroccan community in France has been notably supportive, celebrating their team’s success following last year’s Under-23 Africa Cup of Nations win.
