Morocco favoured to progress over Iraq while Egypt face an uphill task against Spain

Morocco favoured to progress over Iraq while Egypt face an uphill task against Spain

Eric Munene 12:24 - 30.07.2024

The North Africans could progress to the quarterfinals

The group stages of the 2024 Olympics has reached its climax and attention is turning to two critical matches in Group C and Group B, where the stakes couldn't be higher for the teams involved.

Group C: Spain vs. Egypt

Spain, having secured their place in the knockout stages with victories in their first two games, will look to maintain their top spot in the group as they face Egypt.

The Spaniards have demonstrated their ability to secure results under pressure, coming from behind to win in both of their opening matches.

Their goal-scoring prowess and strong defensive record make them the favorites to finish atop the group.

Egypt, currently in second place, has relied on a solid defensive setup, having yet to concede a goal in the tournament. Their campaign hinges on this final match, where they need at least a draw to guarantee progression.

A win could see them leapfrog Spain to the top of Group C, adding another twist to an already thrilling group stage. Egypt's goalkeeper, Hamza Alaa, will be key in maintaining their impressive defensive record against Spain's attacking strength.

Group B: Morocco vs. Iraq

Meanwhile, Group B is equally tantalizing with all three teams—Morocco, Iraq, and Argentina—level on three points each.

Morocco’s dramatic campaign has been marked by intense matches, including a narrow win over Argentina and a heart-wrenching last-minute defeat to Ukraine.

Despite the setbacks, Morocco is favoured to advance past Iraq and into the knockout stages for the first time since 1972.

For Morocco, the hope lies in Amir Richardson, who has been instrumental in giving his team early leads, and a win against Iraq would secure their spot in the next round. Iraq, on the other hand, will be aiming to make history by advancing past the group stages for only the second time.

With a history of entertaining matches where no game has ended in a draw, Iraq will be pushing hard for a victory to avoid the complex tiebreakers.

The Lions of Babylon will rely on their overage player, Aymen Hussein, who has been in stellar form, scoring in both group matches and in his last seven games for Iraq.

His performance could be crucial in overcoming Morocco and ensuring their progression.

With so much on the line, these matches promise to deliver high drama and excitement as the group stages draw to a close.