Spain secured the gold medal in men’s Olympic football on Friday by defeating France 5-3 after extra time in what became the highest-scoring Olympic final in history.

The intense match at Parc des Princes saw two talented teams go head-to-head, with Spain ultimately overcoming the host nation in an eight-goal spectacle.

France struck first when Enzo Millot’s powerful shot was mishandled by Spanish goalkeeper Arnau Tenas, resulting in an own goal that gave Les Bleus an early advantage. However, Spain quickly responded, led by the impressive performance of 21-year-old Barcelona talent Fermn Lpez.

Spain’s strong comeback

Lpez equalized with a precise low drive and later redirected a ball into the net at the back post, marking his sixth goal in six games. Spain then extended their lead with a stunning free-kick from lex Baena, who placed the ball perfectly into the top left corner, adding to his earlier assist.

France, now trailing 3-1, became only the second team in Olympic history to concede three goals in the first half of a men’s final, the first being Denmark in 1912.

In the second half, Thierry Henry’s team increased the pressure, dominating much of the play. Despite lively efforts from Michael Olise and Jean-Philippe Mateta, and a powerful shot from Manu Kon that was saved by Tenas, France struggled to find the back of the net.

However, a deflected shot allowed Maghnes Akliouche to narrow the score to 3-2 with about 10 minutes remaining. In the final moments of regulation time, VAR awarded France a penalty after Benat Turrientes committed a foul in the box. Mateta calmly converted the penalty, forcing the match into extra time.

Spain had to wait until extra time to secure their gold medal

As extra time began, Spain regained control. Substitute Sergio Camello was played into the box and cleverly chipped French goalkeeper Guillaume Restes, giving Spain a 4-3 lead.

France pushed desperately for another equalizer, but the match was decided when Tenas launched a long throw to Camello, who scored his second goal of the game, securing a 5-3 victory for Spain.

Spain’s triumph not only earned them the gold medal but also etched their name into history with one of the most memorable Olympic football finals to have ever been played.