The Olympic Games will officially begin on Friday with the opening ceremony and the lighting of the cauldron. However, due to scheduling issues, there are some sports that will start earlier and that will see teams from Brazil begin their quest for the much-coveted gold.
Men’s football is one of the disciplines that will be making its debut today at the Paris 2024 competitions. Brazil won the gold medal in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, but did not qualify for this edition and will not be able to defend its title.
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The big favourites are Argentina, which debuts against Morocco; Spain, which plays against Uzbekistan; and France, which starts the tournament against the United States. However, this competition has produced some big surprises in its history, such as the championship won by Nigeria in Atlanta 1996.
Olympic football kicks off tomorrow! ⚽️🎉
Relive some of the iconic goals and golden moments from the last five men's tournaments. 👀#Olympics | #Paris2024 | #Football | #LastFive | @FIFAWorldCup | @FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/pzQ6rCdxLs
— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) July 23, 2024
Another sport that starts two days before the opening is men’s rugby sevens. At the Stade de France, where the athletics event will be held, the preliminary round will begin with a duel between two heavyweights in the category and old acquaintances: Australia against Samoa.
Brazil debuts in women’s football and handball
The competition continues tomorrow with the kick-off of the group stage of women’s football. Brazil opens against Nigeria at 7pm local time (14pm Brasilia time) in Bordeaux.
The reigning world champions, Spain, will face Japan in Nantes, while the defending Olympic gold medallist, Canada, will begin their journey against New Zealand in Saint-Étienne.
Women’s handball also starts tomorrow. The Brazilian team faces a difficult opening match against Spain, while the big favourite, the host France, plays Hungary.
Handball Glory Awaits! 🏆
The Arena Paris South is ready to host thrilling matches and the preliminary rounds of the tournament. With a passionate crowd, this venue will see the world’s best handball teams battling for gold. Get ready for action and unforgettable memories.PS :… pic.twitter.com/ONipM50DaQ
— Paris 2024 (@Paris2024) July 23, 2024
The day before the Olympic opening there will also be preliminary rounds of archery, in individual and team categories, for women, men and mixed.
