France U23 vs Spain U23 Prediction: Spain is expected to edge out France in a closely contested Olympic final, with a predicted score of 2-1 to La Roja.
The stage is set for an epic clash as hosts France take on neighbors Spain in the men’s football gold medal match at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With both nations eyeing their second-ever Olympic gold in the sport, Friday’s showdown at Parc des Princes promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Road to the Final
France’s journey to the final has been near-flawless, winning all their group matches while scoring seven goals and conceding just once. They overcame a stern test from Argentina in a fiery quarter-final before staging a comeback against 10-man Egypt in the semis, with Jean-Philippe Mateta playing the hero.
Spain’s path has been equally impressive, with their only blemish coming in the final group game when fielding a rotated squad. La Roja cruised past Japan in the quarters before showing resilience to overturn a deficit against Morocco in the semis, with Barcelona starlet Fermin Lopez proving instrumental.
Projected France U23 vs Spain U23 Lineups and Formations
France U23 Lineup (4-3-3): Mateta, Lukeba, Truffert, Lacazette, Sildillia, Kone, Restes, Chotard, Olise, Millot, Bade
Spain U23 Lineups (4-3-3): Miranda, Oroz, Cubarsi, F. Lopez, Garcia, Baena, Pubill, Barrios, Tenas, Ruiz, Gomez
Both sides are expected to line up in similar 4-3-3 formations, with France likely to make minimal changes from their semi-final lineup. The return of Manu Kone and Enzo Millot from suspension provides a boost to Thierry Henry’s midfield options.
Spain’s lineup revolves around the in-form Fermin Lopez, while Eric Garcia brings valuable experience to the backline alongside Barcelona prodigy Pau Cubarsi.
Key Players to Watch
France:
- Jean-Philippe Mateta: The striker’s brace against Egypt underlines his importance
- Michael Olise: The creative spark who has linked up well with Mateta
- Alexandre Lacazette: The captain brings top-level experience to the frontline
Spain:
- Fermin Lopez: Fresh off Euro 2024 success, he’s been Spain’s standout performer
- Abel Ruiz: The focal point of Spain’s attack
- Eric Garcia: Provides leadership and stability in defense
Players Unavailable or Injured
- France U23
- No major injuries or suspensions reported.
- Manu Kone: Returns from suspension (accumulated bookings)
- Enzo Millot: Available after serving post-match red card suspension from Argentina game
- Spain U23
- No significant injuries mentioned.
- Full-strength squad expected to be available.
Where to Watch?
The gold medal match kicks off at 5 pm UK time on Friday, August 9th at Parc des Princes.
France U23 vs Spain U23 Live Streaming and TV Schedule
- USA: Peacock
- UK: BBC iPlayer, BBC Sport Website
- Canada: CBC
- Australia: Seven Network
- India: Sony LIV
Check your local Olympic broadcasters for additional coverage details.
Head-to-Head and Form
This will be the first meeting between France and Spain at the Olympic level. Both teams enter the final in red-hot form, having won four out of their five matches in the tournament.
Who Will Win?
This clash is too close to call, with both sides possessing the quality to claim gold. France will have home advantage and the momentum of their dramatic semi-final comeback. However, Spain’s technical prowess and tournament experience could prove decisive.
Predicted Score
Based on the analysis, a 2-1 victory for Spain seems plausible, but don’t be surprised if this one goes all the way to penalties.
Key Stats
- France have scored 7 goals while conceding just 1 in the tournament
- Spain’s only defeat came with a rotated squad in their final group game
- Both nations are aiming for their second Olympic gold in men’s football
- France last won gold in 1984, while Spain triumphed on home soil in 1992
Olympic Standings Impact
The winner of this match will secure the gold medal and top spot on the Olympic football podium. The losing team will take home silver, a feat Spain achieved in Tokyo three years ago.
This golden showdown adds another chapter to the rich footballing history between these neighboring nations. With Paris as the backdrop, we’re set for an unforgettable Olympic final.
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