The greatest multi-sport festival on earth, the Games of the Olympiad, commonly known as the Olympics, will set up shop in Paris this year. As always, the best athletes in the world will feature in this cut-throat competition, aiming to get their hands on the coveted gold medal and go down in the history books.
Men’s soccer has been a fixture in all but two Olympic Games editions — 1896 and 1932. Unlike other major tournaments, such as the FIFA World Cup or European Championship, the Olympics only allows U-23 players to participate, with only three over-aged players permitted in the squad. This allows young players to have their shot at global recognition, which they do not always get in all-senior competitions.
As we wait for the Games to begin, we have decided to quickly sift through the 16 qualified teams and identify five players worth keeping an eye out. Let’s begin!
#5 Thiago Almada – Argentina
Thiago Almada Has Left Atlanta For Botafogo
Kicking off the list is Botafogo star Thiago Almada, who will make his Olympic Games debut for Argentina in Paris. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder is brilliant at his craft and performed admirably in the CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament. Featuring in seven matches, he scored five times and claimed two assists, showing he is ready to lead La Albiceleste.
Almada featured regularly for Atlanta in Major League Soccer (MLS) before switching to Botafogo on July 12. Prior to his sudden exit, Almada played 17 games for Atlanta in MLS, scoring six times and providing an assist.
#4 Alex Baena – Spain
Alex Baena Will Be Key For Spain In Paris Olympics
Having become the first nation in history to win four European Championship titles, Spain is flying high at the moment. The European powerhouse will love to extend its good run with a gold in the Paris Olympics.
Spain have a star-studded team for the Paris Olympics, spearheaded by attacking midfielder Alex Baena. The 23-year-old, who played twice for La Roja…
Source link : https://sportslens.com/news/top-5-players-paris-olympics-2024/
Author : Sushan Chakraborty
Publish date : 2024-07-23 07:27:41
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Author : soccernews
Publish date : 2024-07-23 12:33:23
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.