Substitute Juanlu Sanchez scored a decisive late goal to propel Spain into the Olympic men’s football final with a 2-1 victory over Morocco on Monday.
The match took place at the Stade Velodrome in Marseille, where Morocco initially took the lead through a penalty by Soufiane Rahimi in the 37th minute.
Sanchez made his mark in the 85th minute at Stade de Marseille, securing the win and setting up a final clash against either France or Egypt, who were set to play their semifinal later.
Reflecting on his goal, Sanchez shared, “The moment passed so fast that I didn’t even realize it, but then when you realized that you scored the goal that puts your team in the final, well, I’m really happy.”
Morocco led 1-0 at halftime, courtesy of Rahimi, who extended his tournament tally to six goals.
Spain equalized in the 65th minute with a superb finish from Fermin Lopez, who then assisted Sanchez for the winning goal.
Lopez commented, “I think that my goal changed a bit the match, and I think it was a great match for the whole team and we deserved it. And here we are.”
Spain, aiming for their second Olympic gold after their triumph in Barcelona in 1992, will face either France or Egypt in the final at the Parc des Princes in Paris on Friday.
In contrast, Morocco will compete for bronze on Thursday in Nantes.
Spain, which last won gold in 1992, was defeated by Brazil in the Tokyo Games final.
The team is eager to make amends, especially following their recent European Championship victory.
Spain coach Santi Denia described the final as “basically a World Cup for the under 23s.” Morocco, despite their strong performance, is determined to secure a medal, as coach Tarik Sektioui emphasized, “We were really motivated today to play in the final. What has happened has happened. And now we must be focused on the next game. There is a medal to be won. That’s not nothing for us. It’s very important for us that we return to Morocco from this tournament with a medal.”
Morocco’s Rahimi, who had been in prolific form, initially threatened to lead his team to another major victory.
Spain’s close attempt at leveling came in first-half stoppage time, with Alex Baena’s long-range shot hitting the post.
Lopez’s celebration after his goal earned him a yellow card for kicking and breaking the corner flag.
Despite a close call from Morocco for a late winner, Sanchez’s decisive strike ensured Spain’s victory.
Spain’s women’s team is also advancing, with a semifinal match against Brazil scheduled for Tuesday in Marseille.
