Argentina's coach strongly criticizes the disorderly 'controversy' during Olympic soccer match against Morocco

 Argentina's soccer federation president condemned the chaotic conclusion to their Olympic match against Morocco, describing it as senseless. Meanwhile, Argentina's coach labeled the incident a "scandal."

The men's soccer tournament opener was interrupted for nearly two hours during added time due to Moroccan fans storming the field and hurling bottles in protest of a late Argentina goal. Despite initially equalizing, the goal was ultimately overturned by the video assistant referee (VAR), resulting in Argentina's 2-1 defeat.

"What unfolded on the field was scandalous. This isn't a local competition; this is the Olympic Games," remarked Argentina coach Javier Mascherano.

Paris organizers expressed their intent to investigate the incident and determine appropriate actions following the match in Saint-Etienne. Argentina's soccer federation formally lodged a protest with FIFA and vowed to take necessary measures to ensure player safety.

"Waiting nearly two hours in the locker room, Moroccan fans invading the field, the violence endured by the Argentine delegation, our players having to warm up again and resume a match that should have been halted by the head referee—all of this is truly inexplicable and contrary to competition rules," stated Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentina Football Association.

Moroccan fans rushed onto the field to protest Cristian Medina's goal during the 16th minute of added time at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, which had seemingly leveled the score at 2-2. Amid chaotic scenes, bottles were thrown from the stands, and security personnel intervened to tackle pitch invaders.

Images also captured Argentina players reacting to what appeared to be a flare being thrown onto the field.

"I strongly condemn the actions of certain supporters during the match, which tarnished the reputation of our loyal fans. Such conduct has no place in football," expressed Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi...See More