BALLS UP
Paris 2024 Olympics chaos as Argentina and Morocco forced to play last three minutes of match in empty stadium
Game also got off to a controversial start before ball had even been kicked
THE Paris Olympic Games were in chaos on day one after Argentina and Morocco were made to play the last three minutes of their match in an empty stadium.
Argentina looked to have netted a last-gasp equaliser in Wednesday's controversial clash.
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With 15 minutes of time added on, the Copa America kings found the back of the net 30 seconds over the allotted slot.
But there were dramatic scenes as firecrackers were hurled from the stands.
Supporters also invaded the pitch as the ref appeared to blow his whistle for full-time.
And players from both sides ran down the tunnel to escape the carnage.
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However, it was soon reported by Argentine news outlet that the ref's whistle may have actually been to SUSPEND the match rather than end it.
Players were left waiting in the dressing room as chiefs scrambled to resolve the issue.
The Olympics' official site also said the game was "interrupted" rather than finished.
And 90 minutes after players had gone off the field, it was then announced that VAR had ruled out Argentina's equaliser for offside.
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Both teams were then told they had 10 minutes to warm up in an empty stadium, as the ref's whistle had indeed been to suspend proceedings.
And they then resumed their match at 6pm BST in the 116th minute, with three minutes still to play.
Paris Olympics kicks off with fans BOOING Argentina during national anthem after Fernandez's racist video about France
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Players and coaches' voices reverberated around the empty stands in spooky scenes reminiscing football during the Covid pandemic.
But Morocco held firm to deny Argentina an equaliser and celebrated as such as the final whistle.
There was drama before kick-off too as fans booed Argentina’s national anthem following last week’s racism storm.
Enzo Fernandez posted a video showing himself and team-mates chanting a vile song about France’s national team.
And jeers were clearly heard as Argentina’s anthem played before a ball was kicked.
What's happening today at The Games?
WHAT TO WATCH TODAY...
Today, two sporting events begin at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Football and rugby sevens group stage matches start two days before the official curtain raiser to allow players enough time between games.
Argentina, Spain, France and the United States are among the big hitters in action in the football.
Click here for all the events taking place at Paris 2024 today.
Follow all the action as it unfolds with our Paris 2024 Olympics LIVE blog.
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