In the third round of the Olympic men's soccer group stage, the New Zealand U23s met the strong France U23s. With their excellent teamwork and individual abilities, the French team took full control of the game and eventually beat New Zealand 3-0 to advance to the last eight.
At the beginning of the match, France U23 team showed a strong desire to attack. They kept tearing apart the New Zealand team's defense through accurate passing and fast running. In the 20th minute of the first half, France finally broke the deadlock. In a well-planned attack, Matta received a smart pass from a teammate inside the penalty area, he calmly adjusted his pace and then fired a shot straight to the far corner of the net, opening the first record for France.
This goal definitely boosted the morale of the French team, and they continued to keep up the high intensity of their offense. It wasn't long before France extended their lead again. Desiré Douet received a teammate's shot in the penalty area which was parried out, and quickly followed up, utilizing his height advantage, he took a precise supplementary shot in front of the goal and sent the ball into New Zealand's goal, making the score 2-0.
Trailing by two goals, New Zealand U23s tried to strengthen their attack through substitutions and adjustments, but it was difficult for them to find an effective way to break through in front of the tight defense of the French team. France, on the other hand, continued to attack, taking advantage of the gaps in the New Zealand backline. In the 70th minute, Kalimuendo received the ball in the penalty area, skillfully adjusted the pace, and then fired a shot to the near corner of the goal, sealing the victory for France.
As the final whistle blew, France U23s beat New Zealand U23s 3-0.
