The Lionesses made a fantastic debut at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, defeating the United States 4-1 at the iconic Stade Olympique Yves-du-Manoir. The Albiceleste team managed to overcome referee penalties and secured a convincing victory in the match.
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The goals were scored by Rocio Sanchez Moccia, Agustina Gorzelany, Julieta Jankunas, and Zoe Diaz.
The team, led by Fernando Ferraro, is one of the main contenders for the gold medal, having achieved five Olympic podium finishes in their last six appearances: silver in Sydney 2000, bronze in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, and silver in London 2012 and Tokyo 2020.
Read also: The Paris Games opened with a spectacular light show, the Olympic flame flying over the Seine, and an emotional closing performance by Céline Dion
How the Lionesses arrived at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
The Lionesses entered these Olympic Games after finishing third in the Pro League 2024 with 34 points, resulting from 10 wins, 2 draws, 4 losses, and 2 bonus points. In this competition, they triumphed 5-4 against the United States in their second match, with goals from Agustina Gorzelany (twice), María José Granatto, Julieta Jankunas, and Eugenia Trinchinetti.
The Lionesses’ Goals Against the United States
Rocio Sánchez Moccia’s goal gave the Lionesses a 1-0 lead over the United States. (Video: Public TV)
Agustina Gorzelany scored to make it 2-0 against the United States. (Video: Public TV)
Julieta Jankunas’ goal added to the score, making it 3-1 against the United States. (Video: Public TV)
Zoe Diaz’s goal finalized the score at 4-1 against the United States. (Video: Public TV)
The Complete Roster of Las Leonas for the 2024 Paris Olympics
- Christina Cosentino
- Juana Castellaro Morello
- Maria Jose Granatto
- Agustina Albertario
- Valentina Raposo
- Agustin Gorzelana
- Victoria Sauze
- Sofia Cairo
- Sofia Toccalino
- Agostina Alonso
- Rocio Sanchez Moccia
- Pilar Campoy
- Eugenia Trinchinetti
- Lara Casas
- Zoe Diaz
- Julieta Jankunas
- Clara Barberi (reserve)
- Victoria Miranda (reserve)
- Valentina Marcucci (reserve)
Las Leonas’ Upcoming Matches at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
- The Lionesses vs. South Africa | Monday, July 29
- Las Leonas vs. Spain | Wednesday, July 31.
- Las Leonas vs. Australia | Thursday, August 1.
- The Lionesses vs. Great Britain | Saturday, August 3.
The Lioness Roars in Victory: Paris 2024 Olympic Games Debut
The Lionesses made a stunning debut at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, defeating the United States 4-1 at the historic Stade Olympique Yves-du-Manoir. This impressive victory showcased not only their skill but also their resilience as they overcame referee penalties to secure a convincing win.
Read also: Surprise and marriage proposal at the Olympic Games: two Argentine athletes got engaged in Paris
The goals came from four standout players: Rocío Sánchez Moccia, Agustina Gorzelany, Julieta Jankunas, and Zoe Díaz.
Led by coach Fernando Ferraro, this team is a strong contender for the gold medal, boasting five Olympic podium finishes in their last six appearances, including silver in Sydney 2000, bronze in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008, as well as silver in London 2012 and Tokyo 2020.
Read also: The Paris Games opened with a light show, the Olympic flame that flew over the Seine, and an emotional closing performance by Céline Dion
How the Lionesses arrived at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
The Lionesses qualified for these Olympic Games by finishing third in the Pro League 2024 with a total of 34 points, accumulated over 10 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses, along with 2 bonus points. Notably, they previously defeated the United States 5-4 in their second match of the league, spurred by goals from Agustina Gorzelany (twice), María José Granatto, Julieta Jankunas, and Eugenia Trinchinetti.
The Goals of the Lionesses Against the United States
Rocío Sánchez Moccia’s opening goal gave the Lionesses a 1-0 lead against the United States. (Video: Public TV)
Agustina Gorzelany extended the lead to 2-0 with a stunning finish. (Video: Public TV)
Julieta Jankunas added another goal to make it 3-1, showcasing excellent teamwork. (Video: Public TV)
Zoe Díaz’s goal capped the match at 4-1, sealing a memorable victory. (Video: Public TV)
The Complete Roster of Las Leonas for the 2024 Paris Olympics
- Christina Cosentino
- Juana Castellaro Morello
- Maria Jose Granatto
- Agustina Albertario
- Valentina Raposo
- Agustina Gorzelany
- Victoria Sauze
- Sofia Cairo
- Sofia Toccalino
- Agostina Alonso
- Rocío Sánchez Moccia
- Pilar Campoy
- Eugenia Trinchinetti
- Lara Casas
- Zoe Díaz
- Julieta Jankunas
- Clara Barberi (reserve)
- Victoria Miranda (reserve)
- Valentina Marcucci (reserve)
The Lionesses Group at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
The Lionesses are drawn in Group B, alongside the United States, South Africa, Spain, Australia, and Great Britain.
Las Leonas’ Next Matches at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games
- The Lionesses vs. South Africa | Monday, July 29
- Las Leonas vs. Spain | Wednesday, July 31
- Las Leonas vs. Australia | Thursday, August 1
- The Lionesses vs. Great Britain | Saturday, August 3
Highlights from the Lionesses’ Victory
The match against the United States was not just a display of skill but also of courage. The Lionesses tackled tough situations, including questionable referee decisions, which they navigated with strategic flair and team solidarity. The atmosphere at Stade Olympique Yves-du-Manoir was electrifying as fans rallied behind their team, making it a memorable event in Olympic history.
Key Players to Watch
In addition to the goal scorers, certain players stood out during the match:
- Rocío Sánchez Moccia: Known for her agility and quick thinking, she initiated the scoring.
- Agustina Gorzelany: A strategic thinker and playmaker, she was crucial in building the team’s momentum.
- Julieta Jankunas: Her ability to read the game was evident as she contributed to keeping the attacking pressure on the U.S. defense.
- Zoe Díaz: A rising star in the team, she demonstrated poise and skill with her finishing touch.
Fan Reactions and Support
The victory against the United States sparked an outpouring of support from Argentine fans. Social media platforms exploded with messages of congratulations, while news outlets highlighted the Lionesses’ determination and skill. Such an overwhelming display of national pride is expected to bolster the team’s confidence as they progress in the tournament.
What’s Next for the Lionesses?
With this remarkable opening match, the Lionesses are on a winning streak that they hope to continue. Their next encounters against South Africa, Spain, Australia, and Great Britain will be critical in determining their path through the tournament. Fans eagerly anticipate how the team will build on their success and vie for a coveted Olympic medal.
