The Argentine Olympic soccer team endured a series of unfortunate events in their first match against Morocco, including a field invasion by irate fans, a robbery at their training base, and a controversial offside call that overturned an equalizer.
Argentina's Olympic soccer campaign got off to a tumultuous start, marked by both on- and off-field drama.
In their opening match against Morocco, the Argentines believed they had rescued a draw with a late equalizer in added time. However, the goal triggered a chaotic scene, as angry Morocco fans stormed the pitch and projectiles rained down on the field.
Argentina's Olympic Misadventures: Field Invasion, Robbery, and Offside Drama
Amid the confusion, fans were initially told the match was over but were later informed it had been suspended. The game resumed nearly two hours later after the goal was ruled out for offside via VAR, in a mostly empty stadium.
Adding to the team's woes, the Argentine Olympic Village delegation reported a robbery at their training base. According to head coach Javier Mascherano, the incident occurred during a training session, resulting in the theft of several items, including midfielder Thiago Almada's watch.
Argentina's Olympic Misadventures: Field Invasion, Robbery, and Offside Drama
Mascherano expressed his disappointment and frustration over the incident, describing it as "disagreeable" and a breach of trust. The Argentine delegation promptly filed a police complaint in Lyon, but the value of the stolen goods and the identity of the perpetrators remain unknown.
Despite the team's resilience in salvaging a draw after the field invasion, their hopes were dashed once more by a controversial offside call. The Argentines believed they had scored a legitimate goal, but VAR ruled otherwise, leaving them with a disappointing loss.
Argentina's Olympic Misadventures: Field Invasion, Robbery, and Offside Drama
The Argentine soccer federation responded to the series of incidents by filing a formal protest with FIFA, the world governing body for football. The federation pledged to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its players.
The events surrounding Argentina's Olympic debut have raised concerns about the level of security at the Games. Calls are mounting for increased measures to prevent similar incidents from marring the competition.
Despite the setbacks, the Argentine team has received widespread support from its fans and the global football community. Many have expressed their solidarity with the players and condemned the acts of violence and theft that have plagued their Olympic journey.
Following their tumultuous opening match, Argentina is determined to regroup and focus on their remaining matches. With their talent and experience, they remain hopeful of achieving their Olympic aspirations and bringing pride to their nation.
Fox News' Ryan Gaydos and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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