USA Humiliated by France in 2024 Paris Olympic Opener

Well, folks, the US men's soccer team had an Olympic debut to forget. The long-awaited return to Olympic competitions, after a lengthy 16-year absence, was marked by a painful 3-0 defeat to host nation France. Playing at the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille, the Americans managed to hold off the French for an hour but eventually succumbed to the talent and experience of Alexandre Lacazette and company. The stadium atmosphere was electric, with 67,000 fans eager to see their team shine, and in the end, the hosts did not disappoint.

Let's face it, starting the tournament against France is no easy feat. The American team, full of spirit and youth, flirted with the possibility of surprising, especially in the first half. There were two clear chances to open the scoring that left the French on edge. The American defense, with Miles Robinson and Walker Zimmerman, was solid, repelling the French attacks, who, despite dominating possession, couldn't find a way through.

Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).

But as the second half began, experience started to make a difference. Lacazette, at 33, showed why he's still a crucial part of the French attack. He opened the scoring with a precise shot from outside the box, and from then on, things started to unravel for the Americans. It didn't take long for him to provide a brilliant assist to Michael Olise, who doubled the lead with an unstoppable shot. It was a cold shower for the young US team.

The final minutes were a real roller coaster of emotions. The Americans didn't give up and pushed forward, creating their best chances of the match. Paxten Aaronson and John Tolkin came very close to scoring, but that finishing touch was missing. And as a final blow, Loïc Badé rose higher than everyone to head home the third goal, sealing the French victory.

As the players left the field dejected, the French fans erupted in joy. American coach Marko Mitrović will have to lift his players' spirits quickly, as the next challenge against New Zealand is just around the corner. And New Zealand won't be an easy task, having beaten Guinea 2-1 in the other group match.

What to say about this debut? The American team showed talent and potential but still lacks that extra something, that cunning that only experience brings. The midfield with Gianluca Busio and Tanner Tessmann managed to hold their ground, but in the end, the lack of maturity in decisive moments weighed heavily. Djordje Mihailovic, another player over 23, almost scored a screamer from long distance, but the ball cruelly hit the post.

Patrick Schulte, the US goalkeeper, did his best to contain the French onslaught, but unfortunately, the stars were aligned for a glorious night for the hosts. The big question now is: what can we expect from the American team moving forward?