Olympics 2024: Why Football, Archery And Rugby Have Started In Build-up To Opening Ceremony In Paris

The Paris Olympics 2024 got off to a dramatic start, even before the official opening ceremony, with football taking center stage. The men’s tournament featured reigning world champions Argentina and 2010 FIFA World Cup winners Spain, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash. However, it was the match between Argentina and Morocco that captured headlines for its chaotic ending.

Morocco fans stormed the field after Argentina’s Cristian Medina netted a late goal in the 16th minute of added time. The game was temporarily halted as security tried to control the situation. Eventually, after a two-hour delay and a VAR review, Medina’s goal was disallowed for offside, and Morocco was declared the 2-1 winner. This tumultuous match underscored the high stakes and intense emotions that football brings to the Olympic stage.

Spain Edges Out Uzbekistan

In another high-profile match, former world champions Spain secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their opening Group C game. The newly-crowned UEFA Euro winners found it challenging to break down a resilient Uzbekistan side. Despite the struggle, Spain managed to secure the win, showcasing their ability to grind out results even when not at their best.

Leading the charge for the hosts, France’s Alexandre Lacazette scored a stunning long-range goal, helping Thierry Henry’s men to a comfortable 3-0 victory over the United States. These matches highlighted the competitive nature of Olympic football and set the tone for what promises to be an exciting tournament.

The Tradition of Early Starts in Olympic Football

Since the Barcelona 1992 Games, football has traditionally started before the official opening ceremony. This practice is rooted in logistical considerations, ensuring players have sufficient recovery time between matches. Benjamin Ceugnart, Competitions Calendar Project Manager for Paris 2024, explained that starting football early helps in managing the tournament’s tight schedule and player welfare.

This tradition has allowed football to maintain its unique rhythm within the broader Olympic schedule, ensuring that the sport receives ample attention and that players can perform at their best throughout the competition.

Archery: India’s First Event at Paris 2024

Archery, one of the earliest events to commence at the Paris Olympics, is significant for India as it marks their first competitive outing in the games. The venue for archery, Invalides, is strategically located next to the river Seine, the site of the opening ceremony. This proximity adds a layer of excitement and anticipation for the Indian contingent and their supporters.

Rugby Sevens and Handball: Early Starts for Strategic Reasons

Rugby sevens and handball are also among the sports that began before the official opening day of the Summer Games. The decision to start these competitions early was made to ensure the smooth organization of events and to maximize the use of shared venues.

Benjamin Ceugnart highlighted that starting handball early allows the sport to utilize the South Paris Arena 6 efficiently, which will later host other events. Similarly, rugby sevens commenced early to accommodate the subsequent athletics events at the Stade de France. These strategic decisions underscore the complex logistical planning required to host a multi-sport event like the Olympics.

The Opening Ceremony on the Seine

The Paris 2024 opening ceremony is set to be a spectacular event, taking place on the river Seine. This marks a departure from the traditional stadium setting, bringing the ceremony into the heart of the city. The decision to host the ceremony on the Seine reflects Paris’s commitment to showcasing its iconic landmarks and providing a unique experience for spectators and athletes alike.

Looking Ahead: India’s Medal Prospects

As the games progress, India aims to surpass its previous medal tally and achieve a double-digit count. The contingent includes top athletes like javelin champion Neeraj Chopra and boxer Lovlina Borgohain, who are expected to lead India’s medal charge. PT Usha, president of the Indian Olympic Association, expressed confidence in the athletes’ preparation and support, emphasizing the role of mental conditioning and personal coaching in their performance.

India’s ambitious goals and the early start of key sports events set the stage for an exhilarating and potentially historic Olympic campaign. With a blend of seasoned champions and promising newcomers, India is poised to make a significant impact at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

A Promising Start to the Paris Olympics

The early start of football and other sports at the Paris Olympics has already delivered high drama and intense competition. As the games unfold, the focus will shift to the athletes’ performances and their quest for Olympic glory. With meticulous planning and strategic scheduling, the Paris Olympics promises to be a memorable event, showcasing the best of international sport and the unique spirit of the Olympic Games.

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