United States handed brutal 3-0 defeat by host nation France in their opening match in Olympic soccer
The United States had a difficult start to their Olympic football campaign, losing the tournament 3-0 to host country France in Marseille.
After the first half ended 0-0, France opened the scoring in the 61st minute with a goal from Alexandre Lacazette, which the striker fired home from long range.
Eight minutes later, a beautifully curled shot from Michael Olise made it 2-0.
France’s last goal came in the 85th minute, off the forehead of Loic Bade, leaving the Americans with an even bigger defeat.
The United States had chances to equalize and score the consolation goals, notably thanks to a header from John Tolkin, just after Lacazette’s goal.
American coach Marko Mitrovic with Walker Zimmerman after Wednesday’s loss
French defender #04 Loic Bade (C) celebrates his goal with teammates
American striker Griffin Yow gave the United States a brief lead late in the game with a right-footed shot, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
The United States now needs the results of the remaining group matches to have a chance of advancing to the knockout stages.