Paris 2024: Morocco Stunned As Spain Progress To Final Amidst Penalty Controversy

Spain are through to the U23 tournament final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. They defeated Morocco in a hard-fought match with a comeback to win 2-1 in the semi-final. 

Fermin Lopez remained an important part of the Spanish, leading the comeback from a goal deficit from the first half to secure the side before they eventually wrapped up the rally from Juanlu Sanchez with five minutes remaining. 

Morocco took the lead in the first half from Soufiane Rahimi's effort scoring from a penalty. The match, however was marred by controversy, with the original referee injured and replaced within the first 15 minutes.

The substituted referee oversaw a tense atmosphere, with fans and officials still upset about the extended stoppage time in Morocco's previous match against Argentina. 

It was a thrilling addition to the Olympic drama in the end, with Morocco's Atlas Lions now eliminated and Spain will face the winner between France and Egypt. 

By: Fagbohun Olumide