Argentina Fights Back To Secure A Late 2-2 Draw With Morocco In Olympics

Cristian Medina scored a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time, securing a 2-2 draw for Argentina against Morocco in their Olympic Games opener in Saint-Etienne. Morocco had seemed poised for victory after Al Ain striker Soufiane Rahimi netted twice within five minutes, straddling half-time. However, substitute Giuliano Simeone reduced the deficit for Javier Mascherano's side, who hit the woodwork twice before Medina's decisive header.

Morocco took the lead two minutes into first-half stoppage time. Ilias Akhomach dazzled the Argentine defence with a backheel, allowing Bilal El Khannouss to set up Rahimi for an easy finish. Shortly after the break, Akhomach was fouled by Julio Soler inside the box. Rahimi converted the penalty, sending his shot into the bottom-left corner to double Morocco's advantage.

Argentina struggled to create clear chances but found a way back with 22 minutes remaining. Soler's cross-shot was met by Simeone, who stretched to prod it into the net. Despite their efforts, Argentina couldn't find an equaliser until the dying moments of the game.

With 116 minutes on the clock, Munir Mohamedi spilled Thiago Almada's long-range effort. Bruno Amione's follow-up was tipped onto the woodwork by Mohamedi. Nicolas Otamendi then headed against the crossbar before Medina finally nodded home into an empty net.

Medina's goal came at 105 minutes and 24 seconds due to extended stoppage time from several heavy challenges and pitch invasions by fans. Argentina ended with a higher expected goals (xG) tally of 2.41 compared to Morocco's 1.46, justifying their hard-fought point.

Morocco had a chance to extend their lead early in the second half when Akhomach was pushed inside the area by Soler. Rahimi calmly converted from the spot, making no mistake with his penalty kick.

Mascherano’s team showed resilience as they clawed back into contention through Simeone’s goal. The Albiceleste continued to press but found it difficult to break down Morocco’s defence until Medina’s last-gasp heroics.

The match saw several interruptions due to heavy tackles and fan encroachments on the field, contributing to the lengthy stoppage time that allowed Argentina one final opportunity to level the score.

The game concluded with both teams sharing points in what was an intense and thrilling encounter at Saint-Etienne.