The upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics are eagerly awaited by fans worldwide, with the women’s Olympic football tournament being a highlight. Following the success of women’s football on the global stage, the World Cup 2.0 at Paris 2024 is poised to showcase the remarkable talent and passion of female athletes from various countries. This article delves into the reasons why the women’s Olympic football tournament is a must-watch event and how it can significantly impact the recognition and prominence of women’s sports on a global scale.
Less than a year after the triumphant FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia, a substantial number of top players from that tournament will be back in action at the Paris Olympics 2024, featuring 12 teams competing for the coveted gold medal. World champions Spain are among the favorites to clinch victory, making their Olympic debut in Paris. Meanwhile, perennial powerhouses like the USA are seeking redemption after a disappointing World Cup performance.
Canada, the defending Olympic champions, achieved a stunning victory at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics by defeating Sweden in the gold medal match. However, Sweden will not be part of the Paris 2024 Olympics after failing to qualify. Similarly, the United Kingdom missed out on securing an Olympic spot through the inaugural Women’s Nations League.
The women’s Olympic football tournament boasts a star-studded lineup of 12 teams with full-strength squads, offering a premier global football competition of exceptional quality. In comparison, the men’s tournament is limited to under-23 players with only three over-age professional players allowed. The anticipated fan interest in the women’s Olympic football competition is expected to surpass previous levels due to the record-breaking global TV viewership during the 2023 World Cup.
USA: A New Era
Under the guidance of new head coach Emma Hayes, Team USA is undergoing a transition with a squad comprising emerging talents. Hayes, known for her successful tenure at Chelsea, took over the team just before the Olympics, following their disappointing World Cup exit. The US, four-time world champions, are aiming to reclaim their top spot in the global rankings under Hayes’ leadership.
The team’s captain, Lindsey Horan, emphasized the group’s resilience and determination to bounce back from their World Cup setback, aiming for gold in Paris. With a mix of young talents like Sophia Smith and experienced players such as Alyssa Naeher, Team USA is set to make a strong statement at the Olympics. Notably, high-profile forward Alex Morgan was surprisingly left out of the squad, signaling a shift in the team dynamics.
Can Spain Achieve Double Success?
Fresh off their victory at the 2023 FIFA World Cup, Spain heads to the Olympics with a chance to secure the unprecedented Gold-World Cup double. Despite off-field controversies following their World Cup win, Spain remains focused on adding another major title to their collection. Led by coach Montse Tome, the top-ranked Spaniards boast a talented squad featuring stars like Aitana Bonmati and Jenni Hermoso.
Marta Leads Brazil, Canada Confident
Brazil, aiming for their first Olympic gold, will rely on the legendary Marta’s experience in her final Games before retirement. Canada, with a core group from their Tokyo Olympic success, including captain Jessie Fleming, is confident of delivering a strong performance in Paris. The Canadians have consistently excelled in women’s football at the Olympics, and they aim to continue their legacy in Group A alongside hosts France, Colombia, and New Zealand.
Stay updated with all the action at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Al Jazeera’s dedicated tournament page, featuring the latest news, match previews, and live text commentary for football, basketball, tennis, and boxing fixtures.
