Morocco U23 vs United States U23 Prediction: Morocco U23 are favored to edge out USA U23 in a closely contested match, potentially winning 2-1 after extra time in this Olympic quarter-final clash.
Match Preview
The Olympic men’s soccer tournament reaches the knockout stages as Morocco U23 and United States U23 face off in a highly anticipated quarter-final clash at the Parc des Princes in Paris. Both teams have shown impressive form to reach this stage and will be eager to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Morocco topped Group B with two wins from three matches, including a shock 2-1 victory over Argentina in their opening game. The Atlas Lions demonstrated their attacking prowess by scoring 6 goals in the group stage.
Meanwhile, the United States finished second in Group A behind hosts France. After a tough 3-0 loss to France in their opener, the Americans bounced back with convincing wins over New Zealand (4-1) and Guinea (3-0) to advance.
Morocco U23 vs United States U23 Lineups and Formation
Morocco U23 Lineup (Probable 4-3-3): Rahimi, Hakimi, Mohamedi, Boukamir, Richardson, Targhalline, El Khannouss, Ezzalzouli, El Ouahdi, El Azzouzi, Akhomach
Coach Tarik Sektioui is likely to stick with the attacking 4-3-3 formation that has served Morocco well so far. The experienced Achraf Hakimi will be crucial in defense and attack from right-back. Up front, the in-form Soufiane Rahimi will lead the line, supported by talented wingers Abde Ezzalzouli and Amine Akhomach.
United States U23 (Probable 4-3-3): Busio, Zimmerman, McGuire, Aaronson, Mihailovic, Paredes, Robinson, Harriel, Tolkin, Tessmann, Schulte
USMNT coach Marko Mitrovic has favored a 4-3-3 system throughout the tournament. The central defensive pairing of Walker Zimmerman and Miles Robinson provides a solid foundation. In midfield, captain Tanner Tessmann will look to control proceedings alongside the creative Djordje Mihailovic. Winger Kevin Paredes has been in excellent form and will be a key attacking threat.
Players Unavailable or Doubtful
Morocco U23
No major injury concerns reported
U.S. Soccer MNT U23
Gianluca Busio – Midfielder (Doubtful)
- Suffered a leg injury during the group stage
- Missed the final group game against Guinea
- Will face a late fitness test before the match
No other significant injuries or suspensions were reported for either team
Where to Watch
The match will be broadcast live on several platforms in the United States:
USA Network Telemundo Peacock NBC Sports App Telemundo Deportes En Vivo
Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 PM ET / 10:00 AM PT.
Morocco U23 vs United States U23 Live Streaming and TV Schedule for Other Countries
For viewers around the world, here’s how you can watch this crucial Olympic quarter-final match in some top-tier countries:
United Kingdom: discovery+, EuroSport Player UK, discovery+ App
Spain: Eurosport Player Spain
Germany: Eurosport Player Deutschland
France: Eurosport Player France, MAX
Italy: Eurosport Player Italy
Australia: Stan Sport, 9Now
Canada: CBC Sports App, cbcsports.ca
Brazil: Canais Globo, SporTV
Japan: TVer
It’s important to note that authentication or subscription may be required for some of these streaming services. Fans should check their local listings to confirm the exact broadcast details in their region.
Key Stats and Form
Morocco U23:
- Won 2, Lost 1 in the group stage
- Scored 6 goals, Conceded 3
- Top scorer: Soufiane Rahimi (4 goals)
United States U23:
- Won 2, Lost 1 in the group stage
- Scored 7 goals, Conceded 4
- Top scorer: Kevin Paredes (2 goals)
Head-to-Head
These teams met in a friendly match in November 2023, with Morocco securing a narrow 1-0 victory. However, competitive matches at a major tournament present a different challenge altogether.
Who Will Win?
This quarter-final clash promises to be an exciting, closely-fought encounter between two talented young teams. Morocco’s attacking flair will test the USA’s defensive resolve, while the Americans have shown they can score goals in bunches when on form.
Morocco’s experience at youth level, having won the U23 Africa Cup of Nations last year, could give them a slight edge. However, the USA’s strong finish to the group stage shows they are peaking at the right time.
Morocco U23 vs United States U23 Prediction: Morocco U23 2-1 United States U23 (After Extra Time)
The match is likely to be tight and could potentially go beyond 90 minutes. Morocco’s superior technical quality may prove decisive in the end, but expect the USA to push them all the way in what should be a thrilling contest.
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