Paris 2024: France secure blind football gold on magical night at Eiffel Tower
France’s blind football team won gold after a thrilling 3-2 penalty shootout victory over Argentina. The match ended 1-1 after regular time, with 41-year-old Frederic Villeroux scoring the decisive penalty.
The final took place under the bright lights of the Eiffel Tower, and it was a dream come true for France, who became only the second nation to win Paralympic blind football gold. The game began with a powerful rendition of the French national anthem and an electric atmosphere with 11,000 fans cheering.
Villeroux, who usually doesn’t take penalty kicks, was encouraged by his coach to take the final shot. “It felt like a movie script,” he said. He praised his teammates, saying, “I’m not a superhero; the whole team are superheroes.”
France took the lead just before halftime with a goal from Villeroux, but Argentina quickly equalized with a goal from Maximiliano Espinillo. The French crowd, waving flags and singing “Allez les Bleus,” continued to support their team loudly.
In the second half, French goalkeeper Alessandro Bartolomucci made several key saves. With just seconds left, an Argentine free kick was blocked, and the game went to penalties.
All penalty kicks were successful until Nahuel Heredia missed, giving Villeroux the chance to win. He scored the winning penalty and collapsed in joy. France celebrated their historic victory.
Brazil Wins Bronze
Earlier, Brazil won the bronze medal with a 1-0 victory over Colombia. Jefinho scored the only goal of the match.
Brazil, who had lost to Argentina in the semifinals, bounced back strongly. Jefinho said, “It was tough to lose in the semifinals, but we showed determination and won today.”
The game started slowly with few chances for either team. Jefinho helped Brazil push forward, but they couldn’t score until the second half. Colombia came close to scoring just before halftime, but Juan Perez Quintero’s shot missed.
In the second half, both teams had chances. Nonato nearly scored for Brazil, and Jhon Gonzalez Hernandez forced a save from the Brazilian goalkeeper. Jefinho’s powerful strike into the corner secured Brazil’s bronze medal, continuing their record of winning a medal at every Paralympic Games.
