The 2024 Paris Olympics are set to showcase a thrilling display of soccer talent, as 16 men’s and 12 women’s teams battle for gold. The 2024 Olympic soccer format, similar to previous Olympics, features a group stage followed by knockout rounds. The tournaments, beginning on July 24th and 25th respectively, feature a unique blend of rising stars and experienced veterans, promising a captivating spectacle for fans worldwide. Here are the nations competing in the 2024 Olympic soccer tournament.
Countries Competing in Men’s Soccer at the Olympics
The men’s tournament features 16 teams divided into four groups. Argentina, two-time Olympic champions, and Spain, silver medalists from the previous Games, are among the top contenders in the 16-team men’s soccer tournament. Israel will also participate in the Olympic soccer tournament after FIFA postponed a decision on suspending the country due to ongoing tensions with Palestine.
Meanwhile, this will be the first time that the Dominican Republic, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine compete in the men’s Olympic soccer competition. Olympic champions Brazil will be absent from the men’s tournament for the first time since 2004 as they failed to qualify.
Olympic men’s soccer groups
- Group A: France, USA, Guinea, New Zealand
- Group B: Argentina, Morocco, Ukraine, Iraq
- Group C: Uzbekistan, Spain, Egypt, Dominican Republic
- Group D: Japan, Paraguay, Mali, Israel
Countries Competing in Women’s 2024 Olympic Soccer
The women’s tournament boasts a star-studded lineup, with powerhouse teams like the United States, Germany, France, Spain, Canada, Brazil, and Australia all vying for gold. The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT), under new head coach Emma Hayes, will look to reclaim Olympic glory after their disappointing bronze medal finish in Tokyo. They face a challenging group that includes Germany, Australia, and Zambia. Meanwhile, host nation France, reigning World Cup champions Spain, and reigning Olympic champions Canada will all be eager to prove their mettle on home soil.
Olympic women’s soccer groups
- Group A: France, Colombia, Canada, New Zealand
- Group B: USA, Zambia, Germany, Australia
- Group C: Spain, Japan, Nigeria, Brazil
Key Storylines
- Wide-Open Men’s Race: With Brazil’s absence, the men’s tournament is ripe for the taking. Will France’s young talent rise to the occasion, or will a surprise contender emerge?
- USWNT Redemption Arc: Can the USWNT rediscover their dominant form and reclaim Olympic gold? Their challenging group will provide an early test.
- Host Nation Hopes: Both France’s men’s and women’s teams will be fueled by home support. Can they harness that energy to achieve Olympic glory?
- Emerging Talents: The Olympics often serve as a springboard for young players to shine, focusing on players under-23. Which emerging stars will capture the world’s attention?
Beyond the Competition
The Olympic soccer tournament is not just about the competition on the field. It’s a celebration of the sport’s global appeal, a showcase for diverse cultures and playing styles, and an opportunity for fans to witness the world’s best players in action. The 2024 Paris Olympics promises to be a memorable chapter in the rich history of Olympic soccer.
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