Mateta shines as France overcome Egypt to reach first Olympic Football final in 40 years

Jean-Philippe Mateta scored twice as France staged a comeback to defeat 10-man Egypt 3-1 after extra time, securing their place in the men’s Olympic football final.

The win ensures that Thierry Henry’s side will earn a medal for the first time in 40 years when they face Spain at the Parc des Princes on Friday (17:00 BST).

Egypt took the lead with a powerful close-range header from Mahmoud Saber, but Mateta equalised late in regular time, capitalising on a pass from Michael Olise.

France took control in extra time, with Mateta heading the hosts in front nine minutes into the period, following Omar Fayed’s dismissal for a second yellow card. Fayed’s first booking had come in stoppage time of the second half, protesting a VAR-reviewed penalty decision.

• Spain secure Olympic Football final spot with comeback win over Morocco

Olise added a third goal to seal the victory for France. Egypt will now face Morocco in the bronze medal match in Nantes on Thursday (16:00 BST).

France’s journey to the final included a 3-0 win over the USA, a narrow victory over Guinea, and a dominant performance against New Zealand to top their group.

They then edged past Argentina in the quarter-finals before their decisive win over Egypt. The final against Spain is scheduled for Friday, August 9, 2024.