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France will take on Argentina at Stade Matmut-Atlantique in the Men's Olympic Football Tournament on Friday. Both teams are seeking passage to the semi-finals.
France U23 vs Argentina U23 Preview
France ran a flawless campaign in the group stage, topping Group A with nine points after beating the USA (3-0), Guinea (1-0) and New Zealand (3-0). Besides home advantage, the host team are in brilliant form thanks to a rigorous preparation that involved five friendly matches. They won three and drew two.
Les Bleus will be meeting Argentina for the first time in this category. France are hoping to cross the quarterfinal stage into the semis for the first time since 1984. Head coach Thierry Henry will once again put his faith in Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, former Arsenal star Alexandre Lacazette and Loïc Badé of Sevilla.
Argentina had a stuttering start to the tournament as they fell to Morocco 2-1 in Group B’s opening match. However, they got back to their feet in their subsequent fixtures, defeating Iran 3-1 and Ukraine 2-0. They finished second in the group, tied on six points with the leaders Morocco, who were stunned by Ukraine 2-1.
La Selección participated in the previous two editions but failed to progress beyond the group stage. The South American representatives boast eye-catching elites in their roster including Nicolas Otamendi, Julian Alvarez and Giuliano Simeone. Rising star Thiago Almada has scored twice in the tournament.
France vs Argentina Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- France have scored 15 goals and conceded only one in their last five matches in all competitions.
- France have participated in the Men's Olympic Football Tournament 13 times.
- France have won two medals so far in the history of the competition: gold in 1984 and silver in 1990.
- Argentina have won four medals: two gold (2004, 2008) and two silver (1928, 1996).
- France have won four times and drawn once in their last five matches while Argentina have won thrice, drawn once and lost once. Form Guide: France – W-W-W-D-W, Argentina – W-W-L-W-D.
France vs Argentina Prediction
We are about to witness a clash of the titans, as both teams are in brilliant shape. However, while France will enjoy a warm support, Argentina could suffer another hostile welcome.
Argentina’s defense should be prepared to fend off France’s relentless probing attacks but the hosts must seal their flanks to check the South Americans.
France are the favorites based on form and home advantage.
Prediction: France 2-1 Argentina
France vs Argentina Tips
Tip 1: Result – France to win
Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals – Yes
Tip 3: France to score first – Yes
Tip 4: Argentina to score - Yes
