5 Men’s Football Olympics Quarterfinals That Became Instant Classics

The men’s football tournament at the Olympics has seen its fair share of thrilling encounters, especially at the quarterfinal stage.

These matches often bring together the best young talents from around the world, which results in high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments. With Men’s Football Olympics Quarterfinals less than 24 hours away, we decided to take a look at some of the best quarterfinal clashes that captured every football fan’s attention. So, here are five quarterfinals that have become instant classics. 

1) Brazil 3 – 4 Nigeria (1996 Atlanta Olympics) 

The 1996 quarterfinal between Nigeria and Brazil is often hailed as one of the greatest matches in Olympic history. Brazil, featuring stars like Ronaldo and Rivaldo, was the favorite. They quickly took control of the match, leading 3-1 at halftime.  

However, Nigeria, led by Nwankwo Kanu and Jay-Jay Okocha, mounted a stunning comeback. Kanu scored twice in the final minutes, including a golden goal in extra time, to secure a 4-3 victory. 

2) Argentina 2 – 1 Netherlands (2008 Beijing Olympics) 

In the 2008 quarterfinals, Argentina faced a tough challenge against the Netherlands. The match was a showcase of young talent, with players like Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria for Argentina, and Ryan Babel and Royston Drenthe for the Netherlands. The game was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging goals.  

It was Di Maria who eventually made the difference, scoring a beautiful goal in extra time to give Argentina a 2-1 win. This match is remembered for its high tempo and the emerging brilliance of a certain Lionel Messi. 

3) Brazil 2 – 0 Colombia (2016 Rio Olympics) 

Scarred by Brazil’s 7-1 humbling at the hands of Germany in the 2014 World Cup Semifinals, fans of the Selecao expected the national team to avenge that embarrassment at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Brazil eventually won the gold medal, as an emotional Neymar (who missed the 7-1 defeat) netted the winning penalty in the finals against Germany. 

However, before that this Brazil team had to overcome a tricky Quarterfinals clash against Colombia. The 2016 quarterfinal between Brazil and Colombia was not just a clash of footballing styles, but also a battle of nerves. With the match taking place in Brazil, the home crowd added to the electrifying atmosphere.  

Brazil, featuring Neymar and Gabriel Jesus, played with flair and aggression. Colombia matched Brazil’s samba flair stride for stride. Neymar opened the scoring with a stunning free-kick, and Luan sealed the win with a second goal. Brazil’s 2-0 victory was celebrated wildly by the home fans. 

4) Spain 5 – 2 Ivory Coast (2020 Tokyo Olympics) 

The 2020 quarterfinal clash between Spain and Ivory Coast was a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Ivory Coast took an early lead, but Spain, featuring young talents like Pedri and Dani Olmo, equalized quickly.  

The match went back and forth, with both teams creating numerous chances. As the game headed into extra time, it was Spain’s Rafa Mir who stole the show, scoring a hat-trick to secure a 5-2 victory for Spain. 

5) Italy 2 – 3 Belgium (2008 Beijing Olympics) 

The 2008 Olympic quarterfinal between Italy and Belgium was a match that had fans buzzing with excitement and anticipation. With a squad boasting multiple talented players like Sebastian Giovinco, Riccardo Montolivo and Giuseppe Rossi, Italy entered this tie as favorites. However, unbeknownst to fans at that time, this Belgium roster consisted of several future stars. Players like Moussa Dembele, Kevin Mirallas, Vincent Kompany and Jan Vertonghen were all a part of this team. 

The match kicked off with Italy asserting their dominance early on, controlling possession and creating several scoring opportunities. It wasn’t long before Italy took the lead through a Rossi penalty. However, Belgium was not ready to roll over. In the 23rd minute, the Red Devils drew level through a Moussa Dembele goal. Buoyed by Dembele’s goal, the Belgians struck again in first half’s injury time.  

After the break, the Azzurri wrestled back control of the game, drawing level in the 74th minute through another Rossi penalty. However, it was Dembele’s day, as he scored the winner in the 79th minute. Belgium eventually lost in the Semifinals to Nigeria. However, their quarterfinals win over Italy ushered in the golden generation of Belgian football. 

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