Blind Football - Men's Bronze COL-BRA & Gold Medal FRA-ARG Matches | Day 10

[Music] [Applause] [Music] he [Applause] [Music] and a very warm welcome to the Eiffel Tower Stadium it is the venue for blind football at the par Olympic Games Paris 2024 weather today well it is a little bit threatening got some clouds in the sky a few spatters of rain we do hope that it holds off I'm Hans frown I'm with Anthony Wells Anthony our session today blind football it's metal day yeah what a session my friend it's such an honor such a privilege to be here alongside you to be here at this incredible venue where in just a few moments around what 9 minutes we have this South American Clash this South American Classico it's sambba versus Kumbia Colombia versus Brazil the bronze medal game for the first time since uh line football started being played at the par Olympic Games back in 2004 in Athens Brazil are not in the gold medal match keeping in mind Brazil are the five-time par Olympic winners they lost L to Argentina four to3 in a penalty shootout in the semi-finals that is why they have the bronze medal match versus Columbia and a good opportunity to get their sixth straight Paro Olympic medal and on the other side you have Columbia the top team in group b they were able uh to reach the semifinals on their Paro Olympic debut but then lost to France at the homide 1- nil with a late goal so an important statistic for us to point out here Hans Brazil and Columbia have faced uh each other 23 times with 18 wins for Brazil and five ties so the Colombians have never beaten Brazil and the question now is can they pull off the upset on the big stage on their paralympic debut so here are the Colombians led by Joan Aria the goalkeeper this is really new territory for Colombia doing they have a chance to do something they've never done before first of all beat Bazil as you said but uh opportunity for a first par Olympic Games medal for Colombia so it's a huge opportunity for them huge Challenge and here is brail and here the favorites five time par Olympic Champs Brazil led by the goalkeeper there luang [Applause] Lera an unaccustomed place for Brazil playing in a bronze medal match but here is the path France and Argentina will play for the gold medal medal Colombia and Brazil contesting for the bronze medal final day at blind football and this has been the place to be in Paris Anthony this is the place to be and let's take a moment right now to enjoy the national anthems of Colombia and Brazil you can please be offending for the national Anem of colia [Music] oh GL [Music] [Applause] [Music] please remember standing for the national anthem of Brazil [Music] the pride of two Nations here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium Eiffel Tower in the backdrop late afternoon in [Music] Paris and Anthony as we await and as we look at the starting lineup for Columbia run us through the starting lineup yeah all eyes on John Gonzalez the number nine he's referred to as blind footballs R Mel Falon remember him in reference to a a Colombian Striker who played at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia Juan Perez who scored the two goal lers for Columbia in the competition not starting it's an opportunity to remind us that substitutions are available so we'll explain the rules of blind football as the matches progress six substitutions for each team in each half so we do see frequent substitutions and once players leave the match they can re-enter here are the [Applause] substitutes yeah this is the Colombian Dugout the star man there the number 10 Juan Perez Kino the golaso against Colombia on Match day one and the goaso against uh against well the Colombian goaso against Japan on Match day one and then the winner against Morocco so those two goals made sure that Columbia qualified as the top team in group [Music] b and here is the starting five for [Applause] Brazil yeah hearo four time par Olympic champ he scored a wonderful goal against France in that 3-0 win three times the best player in the world there's nonato he's the top scorer of the competition with three goals and then Chiago Parana nicknamed Chiago Paran cuz he's from Pana which is one of the three states in the south of Brazil nice to see some Brazilian supporters in the bleachers as well here's the Dugout Jarel and jeffo the paralympic Pelle Hans you can expect him to jump in over the course of the game a lot of strike power in this entire Brazilian roster if you've never seen a blind football match before it is for the visually impaired all the Outfield players B1 classified have visual impairment they're wearing eye patches and eye shades however the goalkeeper is fully cited and acts as a guide player so this is why the goalkeepers are not wearing ey Shades yeah and you can see that the the field is divided into 3/3 right so in the middle third as we see the the officials quite an interational France Argentina Thailand and Romania the nationalities but in blind football the pitch is divided into 3/3 in the middle third that's where the coach can communicate with the players in the attacking third that's the work of the guide and then in the defensive third the work of the goalkeeper in theory my friend cuz at times you know they they like to bend the rules a little bit so we're going to see how things uh play out here the coin tossed just a few moments to determine who's going to get first possession [Applause] [Music] exchange of gifts and good wishes before this match gets underway and this has place has been rocking really right through the whole tournament and again another sellout tonight it's going to be absolutely epic it it I mean really high expectations right France silver medalists in in London in 2012 Argentina four Olympic medals but two bronze two gold or I mean two bronze two silver no gold so Stakes are high this Clash is is expected to be excellent as well a repeat of the final of the parapan in Santiago last year keeping in mind both teams met for the bronze medal game at the world championship in Birmingham and Brazil destroyed Columbia 7 to1 the Colombians will want revenge well I'm sure they'll have taken away memories from that match one of the great things too is Spectators are able to enjoy the sport with the benefit of some assisted devices Colombian coach Fernando yeah there's Fernando Kio 51-year-old manager he's been Columbus coach since 2017 since he took charge good things have happened for Columbia third place at the cop America Santiago in 17 third place in Cordova 2022 silver medal at the parapan in Chile last year there's nonato he's the top scorer of the par Olympic Games with three goals and now Fabio vasconcelos head coach for Brazil since 2013 goalkeeper won Gold in 2004 Athens 2008 Beijing and 2012 London now the crowd being asked for quiet there's a sound making device in the ball three guides giving direction from outside the kickboards to the athletes but silence essential as we prepare to kick off open the kickoff and we are underway in this bronze medal match in blind football col IIA in the yellow jerseys playing right to left Brazil in the green first half is underway yeah and just to recap that statistic Hans 23 matches this is the 24th game between both sides 18 wins for Brazil and five ties so Columbia have never beaten Brazil they'll be looking to do that on the big stage here lato snapshot great save nice save there from Johan Aria who has been just a solid goalkeeper for Columbia really with a shot Thiago Silva good start for Brazil yeah just a low laser there from Thiago Pana wasn't it on frame another a could save for Maria off to a hot start this is uh how he expected it to be [Applause] kickboard shephered over the goal line Cil restart to Brazil just two players in this Brazilian team were not part of the conquest in Tokyo Jonathan who missed one of the penalty kicks against the Argentina and Michael the number four who are in The Dugout everyone else has at least one par Olympic title Theo you see there on the left wing he has four he's got 10 goals in the uh history of the par Olympic Games one in 2024 here in Paris scored against France on that three-nil win on Match day two setting the offense going the aerial route easy stop another feature of blind football that rectangular area right in front of the goalkeeper that's the goalkeeper area they cannot touch the ball outside that area yeah you have talked about this right Hans The Outfield players are blind they rely solely on sound to play the game so really any noise coming from the stands can disrupt the flow of the match here's monu nice run of that left hand side but then the goalkeeper is sided but he cannot leave that small box that surround him no offside of course as well was important to point out and then in regular football we count up towards 45 minutes in blind football we count down from 15 and each team is allowed four fouls in the half right so starting from the fifth if it if it gets to that number the opposing side gets a direct free kick from The 8meter Mark another important rule pertaining to cesy foot French term for blind football sesy foot s very poetic I kind of like it played at the par Olympic Games since Athens 2004 Brazil won every addition for so for the first time they're not in the gold medal match but they do have a shot here at their sixth par Olympic medal set piece opportunity here for Colombia Gales in the corner looking to start the set play [Music] some space Columbia reset herandez go to the left kick board finding space for Gonzalez a rough challenge there from Chiago panana who scored one goal in Tokyo this is John Gonzalez blind footballs radel fala he was the top scorer of the cop America couple years ago in 2022 he won the ca libertadores title back in in 2015 and since then has been a member of the national side he scored the winner against just a few months ago in the Grand Prix still seeking to find the back of the net in Paris another opportunity for the Colombians and lofting it into the penalty area Hernandez had a pass at it goes over the goal line and we will have another set piece corner for Columbia contesting well if they felt overmatched by Brazil they're not showing it Anthony yeah it's expected to be really a tight game both teams looking for that rebound win following the loss in the semis Brazil are without a doubt the favorites but Columbia are not expected to make it easy it's one of those matches they can play with really no pressure on their shoulders they opponent heavily favored so they can play with some freedom and that's a word I've seen a lot lot of interviews with a lot of the players and they talk about being on the pitch they feel free when they're playing totally and you saw the advantage of playing with no pressure on your shoulders for Columbia in the group stage all right a win against Japan a win against Morocco they were able to tie Argentina nil nil even had chances to perhaps win that game cardo so often the playmaker for Brazil yeah 10 goals for hiar in the history of the par Olympic Games he had four in 2008 one in London in 2012 three in Rio 20162 in Tokyo and one goal thus far here in Paris one be shepher over the goal line so it'll be the restart for Columbia Bender has to throw the ball has to land on their side of halfway for it to be a legal restart turnover possession here come Brazil good defensive stop Alex Martinez in the way there he has been such an instrumental player for Colombia in that middle third always running back and forth always really disrupting the the flow of the opposing side gonalez makes a good turn out of his penalty area starts up field heavy tackled by Pana Hernandez recovers from the crowd as the ball was moving into that striking area cardino loses his footing a little bit damp out there Nat fighting off Defenders gets it away just wide creating space for himself yeah this this play just really shows the footwork on hi karino and nonato huh and that ability to just shift Direction quickly find the angle find the space hardia is uh expected to have a few saves over the course of this game could be a busy man in this match yeah busy man seal coming forward Mak a bit for it Columbia defending well yeah that was a nice run from kasu two time par Olympic champ in Rio 2016 and in [Music] Tokyo not playing Defender turns over possession Brazil come forward yeah Brazil with a little bit more ball possession 53% against 47 long the lines of what we expected really Cino looking for nanato lurking dangerously Gonzalez fights off regains possession colia to restart the players saying voy what are they talking about Anthony yeah voy uh in Spanish means to go so whenever the player is going to challenge for the ball he needs to say voy if he doesn't do that and goes for the ball it's a foul it's always very important to say voy so you're going to if this is your first time watching blind football you're going to you're going to listen to that word a lot over the course of uh this broadcast [Applause] so we're past the Midway point of the first half Brazil and Columbia still goalless Silva presses into the penalty area runs into a wall of Colombian Defenders at the world championship in Birmingham last August Brazil beat Columbia seven to one in the bronze medal game but in the final of the parapan in Chile it was just one nil so you're really don't know what to expect talk about a defensive adjustment absolutely Hernandez fighting for possession now again CIO turns defend coming forward again real contest along the kickboard see into space now dispossessed gains heavy contest from Gonzalez back to the keeper Columbia will reset 546 remain in the first half yeah less than six minutes left till the end of the first half have been doing the majority of the attacking Columbia most of the defending that's kind of how we expected things to to go down we're going to have our first substitutions [Music] Anthony yeah J and Jeff F are going to step in Jeff field ladies and gentlemen is nicknam the par Olympic Pelle four time par Olympic champ jardel has a goal in this tournament from the penalty spot there's J he was in Tokyo as well scored twice in Tokyo has one goal in Paris scored one of Brazil's three goals in the victory against France on Match day two and this is the guy that I was talking about Hans this is H Perez kto you know they call John Gonzalez the the the uh blind footballs R Falcon where I like I like to call Juan Perez the the blind football's Arian Robin CU he's a left footed player but he likes to play on the right hand side right so he can cut it inside you know and take take those shots with that excellent left foot of his and that's exactly what we saw uh in J in in the match against Japan the victory against the Japanese and the Victor against Morocco as well so the Brazilians really have to watch out for Perez's left foot he's not wearing orange but bright yellow yeah sardel immediately into the action coming forward so strong on the ball and against the kickboard see him use his body to Shield the Ballo so the substitutes immediately seeing action for Brazil Brazil have really impressive numbers in the Paro Olympic Games right 31 matches 23 wins eight ties no losses 60 goals scored and four conceded I know Brazil lost in the penalty shootout ball in the area n gets a shot away and the rebound ball still loose yeah nice stop there from Ard on that near post and and this this play really illustrates once again how the goalkeeper cannot leave that area so even though the ball's right in front of him he can't reach it so even though just to conclude my train of thought even though Brazil lost the game to Argentina in the semi-finals it was settled in a penalty shootout so at the end of the day it goes down as a tie so Brazil have 31 matches in the history of the paralympic games 23 wins eight ties no losses 60 goals scored and just four conceded great illustration here at the point that anthy was making gender made the stop but cannot reach outside that area to grab the ball off the deck two solid saves from out of the up has to wait patiently again for that ball to reach the goalkeeper area just over four minutes remaining in the first half of this bronze match no score get is looking for his first touch yeah Brazil with five shots four On Target just one for Columbia disarray in the defensive area for Brazil Bez trying to take advantage hard contact on the kickb from Caso into the area he will restart [Music] [Applause] good touch for Martinez creating space closely by Gonzalez impressed with Colombia's defensive positioning so far Anthony yeah so for Hernandez and Martinez very much to thank for that heavy contact brings the whistle and a free kick yeah now Columbia are playing with two Strikers one Defender and one midfielder after Perez entered the match two team fouls for Brazil right now after the contact here from nonat hund n Alvis manges 10 par Olympic goal throughout his career he scored six in Tokyo behind only Maxi Espino and Z the Moroccan player was the top scor with eight Moxy had seven lato had six he's got three so far in Paris scored once as well in Rio let's listen as the setup in these set plays first opportunity for the goalkeeper to set the defense now the guide [Music] [Applause] before the action herandez is going to step back in 3 minutes and 9 seconds to [Applause] go so good setpiece opportunity here for Columbus so they're going to make a substitution her Hernandez back on the on the pitch see the guide behind the goal he's giving direction to the Colombian offensive players listen yeah so that's the right post if you are Colombia that's the work being done by the Colombian guide Jonathan Ramirez no real Captain Mouse now as a timeouts called so after the set piece was being set yeah I mean h this is this is really a good time right now for the coaches to just communicate with the players pass on Instructions make perhaps small adjustments and and Columbia really have to capitalize on the few chances that they are really expected to get over the course of the game so they have a dangerous set piece right now we're going to see what's going to you know come from it so Columbia were able to tie Brazil five times right two ties in the cop America a 2-2 draw in the groove stage of the cop America in 2017 in Santiago nil nil in Bueno sidtis back in 2009 and they had a draw this year 1-1 at the Grand Prix a few months back that was held here in France a nil nil draw at the 1998 World Championship that was held in Brazil and nil nil draw as well at the parapan in Lima Peru back in 2019 so those were the only five times that Colombia were able to tie Brazil out of the 23 matches that both of these teams played against each other see the referees checking the eye shades as the players return to the field of play sure they're in position so timeout concluded each team has one timeout per half so columia wanting to make the most as Anthony pointed out of this opportunity because set piece Gonzalez drifting in just outside the post Dangerously In The Penalty area no Nao marking himan setting the defense for Brazil keep ready guide instructions Jonathan guy from colia he said right so the left post if you're columia pz treding to take a couple of steps and shoot but that was really well anticipated by Castillo came out to defend Ito yeah nice piece of Defending there from Casio he was on to uh Perez's left foot jinho one on three ball runs over the goal line yeah at times it even seems like jafo can see huh that's how good he is really he's able to find those those little spaces to kind of weave his way through less than three minutes on the clock still nil [Applause] nil columia pressing here chinho turning it over Chapo nearly breaks [Music] through good run again solid wall of Defense from Colombia Gales little nut mag there from Gonzalez on nonato and jafu is not a starting player right many Brazilians feel like jefo should start alongside hio pz let's fly with the left foot not far off the mark yeah we're going to talk about that left put a on a few occasions more substitutions for Brazil jel to come off he scored a lovely free kick goal against France on Match day two [Applause] also coming to the sidelines yeah speaking of hikaro there he is three times the best blind football footballer in the world four time par Olympic champ rolls into the offensive area just out of the touch of nanato oh good stop there what imagination cardo creating space for himself good defensive stand by gonalez [Music] for possession in the Midfield ranging up screened out such an imposing Force gcia Lopez there's once again Fabio vasos he won the best team sports coach by the Brazilian par Olympic Committee nice change of Direction there from Gonzalez question now is is there a foul on the play not according to the ref goodness that was a tough tackle not quite sure how I feel about that one great run by Gonzalez inside a minute in the first half bronze medal match scoreless yes sing falta those were the words coming from the Colombian Dugout meaning no foul not the [Applause] case just two team fouls for Brazil none for Colombia less than 40 seconds to [Music] go will be Brazil with the free kick to restart for all the talk of Rick cardin's goal scoring prowess which is amazing yeah he is just such a a captain with the ball in at his feet he just creates space for himself he creates space for his teammate he creates havoc on Defenders yeah he scored a A great goal against France doing exactly this right shifting Direction slicing his way through and he can often create space where at times you don't think there is any space there and he'll find it and he'll score for a a wonder goal he's got 10 goals in the paral Olympic Games final seconds of the first half last offensive foray perhaps for Colombia Gonzalez with possession looking for Perez Perez shoots just wide yeah there was a deflection there off of nonato that really helped uh Perez offt Target though on the Finish that's the end of the first nil nil a good first half thus far Hans I enjoyed it what we expected from a a South American Clash like this one keeping in mind if this result holds ladies and gentlemen a penalty shootout is going to determine who will end up with the uh Bron medal Brazil has unhappy memories of penalty shootouts from the semi-final but we are nil nil Columbia Brazil at halftime in the blind football bronze medal match in the Eiffel Tower Stadium the par Olympic Games Paris 2024 match day five of the cesi foot on the 10th day of the par Olympic Games if I'm not mistaken nice to see the crowd here men and women young and old filling the Eiffel Tower Arena bleachers it has a capacity with just over 10,000 spectators not too long ago this is where the beach volleyball tournament was held and this was it still is the place to be but it definitely was the place to be as well for the beach volleyball competition a 10-minute halftime break right now this is a good chance for us to you know see some of the highlights here Brazil off to a hot start with nonato 1 V one with ardia almost scoring for the Brazilians I mean if you ask me Hans ardia was the man of the match of the first half so the man of the first half he had a couple saves this was the first one this was the second I count at least four saves from uh the Colombian goalkeeper nice strike here from from Chiago Parana he's got a great right [Music] foot nice effort here from nonato good change of Direction there and these were the uh back-to- back saves from the Colombian goalkeeper denying nonato not once but twice so that's five that's five saves from ARA the goalkeeping positioning in blind football you could see arms back because he doesn't want to touch the ball while it's outside the goalkeeper's uh area because that would be a penalty and here are the stats Brazil with the better of The Possession but Colombia really hung in there and as you said Anthony in the highlights yeah absolutely I think these numbers really translate to what we saw over the course of the first half right over 60% ball possession for Brazil more shots more shots on Target but I always like to say this Hans at the end of the day my friend what matters is finding the back of the Nets exactly right in Brazil uh weren't able to do that I I called the the Seventh Place match between turkey and Japan and Japan same story more possession more shots more shots on target more free kicks more Corner kicks they you know all the numbers were in their favor but guess who ended up winning the game one minute of Brilliance right yeah two two-nil turkey so we're really uh going to see what's going to happen in the second half both teams looking to break the deadlock let's just in the meantime enjoy the halftime spectacle be fits a South American contest the rhythmic drums are pounding here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium yeah I mean the halftime shows over the course really of the entire competition have been amazing right the volunteers the dancers these guys just really doing an excellent job building up the atmosphere building up the energy and it gives us an opportunity really on this final day of the blind football competition really to say our thanks to the people of Paris to the volunteers to the spectators yeah it's been absolutely extraordinarily well supported well organized and hey just plain fun absolutely 100% buddy couldn't agree with you more it really takes you know a lot of Minds a lot of of of arms and legs you a lot of people to you know to make something as great as this happen we really have to thank everyone who who got involved from wherever you're watching us around the globe we're certainly very very happy to have you here with us on another very special par Olympic broadcast we're here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium how about this wide shot huh yeah it doesn't get much better than that does it and as the day turns inight and nice to see fge on the pitch there talk about a popular mascot yeah everywhere you look at parents you're going to see F yeah FR is definitely in the on the podium for probably most popular mascot in par Olympic Games history that's uh FR has had an outstanding week and a half of the par Olympic Games and look at the three colur waving at the Eiffel Tower Stadium France will be playing in the gold medal game of course and the place will be rocking for that gold medal match bronze medal match they're enjoying it and yeah the place is already packed as it is right absolutely you just feel the energy you know France back in the final after 12 years right exactly that silver medalists in London 2012 losing to Brazil four of the athletes from that French team from 2012 are competing here in Paris and The Lure of competing on home soil I think has kept a number of the French players in the sport and they find themselves in the gold medal match which is amazing for them and this bronze medal match super entertaining it's uh it's anybody's match at halftime yeah I mean they really have yeah the HomeField Advantage big time Anthony pointed out during the Olympic Games this was the beach volleyball venue they wield out the sand wielded in a footall pitch and here we are at the base of the Eiffel Tower you know I I was on that pitch just a few days ago and I can tell you one thing my friend it is a tough sport to play yeah it really is tough I mean you really have to commend these players first of all they're running into each other full force and they immediately get back up but you have just no idea where where the ball is especially when the ball is still yeah it can it can be agonizing I mean that's how I would describe it um so what what these guys can do is is honestly very very impressive especially the players like jeffo hikaro um yeah the exactly that they can they can come forward at full Pace they can pull a 360 uh they will just you know the outright audacity of some of the moves that they make is just breathtaking yeah that quick change in Direction being able to maneuver the ball in such an extraordinary way excellent footwork and teamwork and we talked a bit about the guides and so the you know the goenda coach at the sidelines is taking the middle third and then there's a guide behind the offensive goal so communication between the four Outfield players and the three guides U there's a lot going on and that sense of hearing um is and communication skills between the players is just absolutely extraordinary it's almost telepathic yeah communication is key I mean other than being a good coach a good guide a good goalkeeper right so show you know a good athlete a good leader you have to learn how to just communicate the best way possible so that your teammates you know know exactly what to do know which way to go so you know commentating blind football I can tell you one thing is easier than playing it right oh gosh no kidding it's easier said than done absolutely right I can tell our viewers that much yep yep put yourself on a footall pitch folks blindfold yourself take a line football ball that has sound and U try to maneuver and give you an idea of what these athletes do and it is truly breathtaking yeah you talked about foota yeah the measurements on the field are the same as foot out the ball is around the same size in weight as well the main difference of course is that the blind football ball has a sound making device inside the ball which is why silence is asked for but not at halftime at halftime the crowd can go nuts and and they are absolutely engaged but that's another thing that's impressed me Anthony is uh the spectators have quickly understood and appreciated uh the protocols for the athletes you know when it's time to play silence descends they let the players play they want to cheer when something is in in motion but then they'll quickly realize they have to hold back so you know credit to The Spectators as well and they've embraced sisso as uh what it is which is a splendid athletic Endeavor but they're playing their part too yeah I think for the for the first time many viewers uh many people in attendance are seeing a silent Ola exactly isn't that isn't that just fascinating it absolutely is and just right on right now just yeah perfect timing huh as we're getting ready to go for the the final chapter as I like to say right the final 15 minutes of playing time so everyone is quieting down yeah let's enjoy this look to the right of your picture this is something that's become a trademark of the Eiffel Tower stadium in the blind football tournament a silent wave fantastic Columbia will have first possession the second chapter there is that silent wave making its way around the stadium fantastic a real signature of Paris only one place in the world we could be right here my friend you are 100% right whistle sounds and play resumes in the second half of the bronze medal match it is Columbia versus Brazil Colombia in the yellow Brazil in the green we are scoreless at halftime yeah so important to point out that the fouls reset right so team is allowed four team fouls in the half starting from the fifth I've said this before the opposing side gets a direct free kick from the 8 meter Mark that's not where the penalty kicks are taken there the penalty kicks are from the six meter marks right there on the edge of the [Applause] area first Corner opportunities we enjoy some of the capacity crowd here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium who are supporting these teams vocally yeah that was a flamingo Jersey you are an offici of jerseys my friend just a few just a few of them real battle on the kickboard drop ball being called it might seem obvious at this point but we talked about the board so I'm sure our viewers have already figured out that there are no sideline throws exactly right so restarts either be a kick in or a drop ball [Music] the drop ball referee caught up and so it wasn't play down he inadvertently screen sorry about that guys you're too fast yeah goshu was ready to just run in the opposite direction wasn't he he was ready to go so we will have a restart turning over possession sporting Spirit yeah nice fair play there from from IIA send it back bring It Forward [Applause] cardino runs over the goal line it will be a corner for [Music] Brazil Gardino to take here alongside to make the touch and to screen hardia setting the defensive wall Brazil is so dangerous all the time but especially on set piece ginho trying to fight his way into the penalty the ball's still loose good defensive play from Hernandez he's looking for Gonzalez down the left wing but a little bit too long over the go line turnover possession now Brazil on attack it really has been the Colombian strategy over the entire competition to just defend all the time and attack when they can and it's a strategy that is worked right playing on the Counterattack especially with this guy from Gonzalez but he's really up against a tough tough defense so organized oh opportunity there for nonato he was looking dangerous yeah he was disrupted there by tus Lopez colia number six who was able to disrupt the flow of the run just in the nick of time always a fun moment of course when you see yourself on the big screen also to keep in mind Brazil have not yet conceded a goal in the par Olympic Games Columbia have ConEd had just won it was that goal to France late in the game in the semifinal brilliant goal by V the French captain that ball shephered over the back line by Lopez Columbia on the restart trying to Quick counter once again Herz Gonzalez Wheels to create space lovely turn Gonzalez great stop yeah that is why he's the danger man that's why he's the starm man for Columbia look at that change in Direction he was able to dribble his way forward One V one with Luan who came up with a big time save loses its momentum before it goes over the goal line so it stays live Sila Tackle by Martinez back heel touch monato contesting Gonzalez all over him good inside step rolling Dangerously In The Penalty area opportunity for Brazil but once again Colombia stve it off cardino letting the defender know I've got a right to come forward yeah chuana was the player who was able to work himself inside right and he's he's the guy who can really punch through those those uh compact defenses that I like to call this is the replay of that earlier run from Gonzalez it was sensational Lan with the save with his right arm getting in the way of the trajectory of the ball a little kid there couldn't believe it that was so close to a Colombian [Applause] goal pis returns to the pitch ju Perez he plays in the Brazilian league in apad Lost His set at the age of 12 became a blind footballer four years after that at 16 from Piqua in northeastern Columbia a lofted pass good turn snapshot just wide Silva yeah lovely work there from Chiago to find room find Space couldn't find the goal the area and zone of the dangerous Perez over the goal line turnover possession [Music] ricardinho Wheels create space up the barrier bz key stop drifting onwards Perez Jace [Music] get it through does roll through but just out of the direction of nonato he was lurking yeah often times hiar was able to dribble through not all the time though the Brazilians in The Stance the middle of the French flags there got a brief glimp of the eye patching as Bez was adjusting his eye shape he will take a [Music] moment yeah all of these players just to point out to our viewers hunts they are what we call in blind football the B1 category which means you're 100% blind do have other categories B2 B3 which means you're partially cited but at the par Olympic Games you are B1 these players rely solely on sound to play the game that's why right the crowd is urged to quiet down because any noise coming from the stands can can get in the way of things obviously exactly that so even though legally fully blind some athletes have a little bit of light perception and hence the eye patching and the eye shade so all athletes in the outfield on an absolute equal footing Jeff was going to jump back in he he scored a goal also as well on that 3-0 win against turkey actually on Match day one so the top scor of the competition is nonat with three he scored twice against turkey and the second top scorer is Perez for Columbia with two defensive wall set for Colombia ricardinho over the ball ricardinho trying to fight his way through but again good defensive stand from Hernandez some assisted devices allowing the fans and the stands to enjoy this as well fantastic yeah this is this is very important this really illustrates how blind football is is more than just a sport it's an inclusive sport right and it's awesome to see that the popularity of the game has really improved it has really increased 64 Nations Affiliated to IA the international blind Sports Federation enjoying this beautiful game lato turns another big stop from Gonzalez was in some space just could not make the turn in yeah lost track of the ball there just as he was about to to go into a 1 V one situation with L less than 10 minutes to go still gaess my friend Hans well that one rose to the Penalty area dangerous for n the guides are into it we're all into it how is this one going to end at the bronze medal match Olympic Games Paris 2024 Brazil Columbia it's been a beauty evenly contested anybody's match really Brazil with the stronger of the attacking opportunities columia they've created a few as [Music] well Brazil with six goals scored in the paralympic games three from nonato and one fromo jeffo and Jarel whistle on the heavy contact free kick is going to be awarded I believe as we're going to have a substitute Juan pz is going to return to the action for Columbia Columbia with two goals in the competition both of them scored by this guy [Music] [Applause] I [Music] defensive positioning being set by ardia the goalkeeper yeah of the four Outfield players for Brazil right now we have hikaro n and jeo so a very offensive formation got you all by himself with the defensive responsibility so we're going to really see how Colombia can explore that right now that Perez is on the field and and Gonzalez is already on so so we really have all the elements now for a back and forth game with you know eight minutes and 27 seconds on the clock CU I like to say fasten your seat belt absolutely that just as I said that he comes off well it's almost like any athlete that Brazil puts on the pitch is a danger man and dieago de Silva is no slouch when he's coming forward either so not sacrificing much on offense but it is going to be a defensive stand here for Brazil as we are in a setpiece situation for Colombia yeah a bit more of a of a a balanced formation now with Chiago on the pitch Gonzalez and Martinez over the ball for Colombia listen to the defensive positioning start wasn't quite Fair Caso said you said Play Let's go a little too anxious there from from kasu 5 meter Gap 5 met Gap important yes two uh par Olympic goals one goal in 2016 one in 2020 snapshot attempt into the defensive wall good positioning from Brazil appreciated by the younger Spectators here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium yeah really nice to see the younger Generations enjoying the sport isn't it absolutely corner kick for [Music] Colombia columia no Brazil cely favored oh audacious little flip pass but intercepted alertly by galz monato away all this tiddies up Shino with the intercep Shao heavy contact there no whistle play on yeah that was all ball though it was rough contact but it was all ball from from martines Brazil have the corner kick then just to recap right the campaign so Brazil started off with a three win over turkey then a three- to win over France a nail nail tie with China they Advanced to the semi-finals that as the first team of group a they tied Argentina nil nil in the semi-finals and lost in the penalty shootout 4 to3 with Hikaru of all players missing the decisive kick off the post penalties are a cruel situation sometimes even to the greatest andinho certainly one of the greatest and so far that is where we're heading right now my friend Columbia started their campaign with a 1-nil win over Japan a goal is draw with Argentina followed by another one-nil win over Morocco and then in the semi-finals lost to hosts France that is why both teams are playing the bronze medal game N double covered on the kickboard Gonzalez turns it away circles and resets fires up the ins side looking for Perez takes it off the kickb Perez has possession one man to beat but that man was casillo it will be another free kick for Colombia yeah Lu though you saw he immediately approached the ref he disagrees with the decision of award warning the foul in Colombia's favor here he's he's basically claiming that kasu got the ball first Either Way Columbia have the set piece once again uh fa gelos there who coached footall indoor football in Cina grandi which is a city in the state of parba in the northeastern portion of Brazil once again Fernando Kio you see former sander head coach manager of the Colombian s since 2017 so this is at medium range but good opportunity for a setpiece play for Columbia ptis tried to turn but quickly B aggressive defending and then brings it straight up the pitch turns Pana just pass latoo solz contesting in the corner will that be a corner I think it might be he took it back over the goal line yeah we're past the Midway point in the second half and the analysis that that we can make is that Brazil are not as Superior in this half as we saw in in the first half right Columbia have been able to even out the uh the attacking opportunities shinho Wheels it's go [Applause] jeffinho go Brazil yeah what a golaso from jeffo worked his way inside found space found room a lovely laser into the corner no chances for ARA his second of the paralympic games let's have a look at it again look at the replay there the right footed shot such [Applause] power on that finish Brazil are ahead 1- nil his 10th goal in the history of the paralympic games is second in Paris F who lost his vision at the age of seven due to [Applause] glaucoma it took the Brazilians a while but they [Music] lead just a snapshot AA beaten Chapo wow what a laser substitution Hernandez on Lopez off it took at least what five to six shots to beat Ara there a piece of Brilliance from Shapino we're going to see now how Columbia can rally this is going to push them you do feel like Anthony they're going have to make an adjustment they're going to have to take some risks they're going to have to come forward that's not their natural game but in this circumstance bronze medal match you got to go for it don't you absolutely and you know Fernando Kio has offensive players on the bench right loo Koka one of them who did play in the group stage hernandz the midfielder on the field as well so Columbia right now playing only with one Defender that's Alex Martinez the number five Gonzalez went full stretch to try and block the ball but he's got some contact with his hands so play whistled down and Brazil will have the opportunity to restart [Music] shoelace is tight on that magic right boot for jeffinho that's the goal scoring footo dancing around the edge of the penalty area Columbia turnover position yeah just incredible footwork up from je that one squirts back over the goal line so it will be a corner for Columbia chance for them on the set piece two team fouls on either side two players in the corner because has to be a touch to the second player before the ball can enter the net set up in tandem often on the corner kick direct barge attempt there from pz Fairly immovable wall from Brazil as to see Colombians and Brazilians side by side in the bleachers absolutely many French as well wonderful Wonder F atmosphere at the Eiffel Tower Stadium right throughout this blind football tournament yeah really every single game has been just incredible even even when there was rain right it was it was always a a great place to be to Sila makes the turn beautiful turn Thiago very physical huh closely marked heavy contact free kick awarded [Applause] now it's Brazil's turn for the set piece another look just clipping nonato there the foul from John Gonzalez who lost his his vision at the age of 12 much like his teammate Juan Perez but he lost his sight due to a bacterial infection luring Columbia alert to that guides directing pz to go and Shadow n three in the wallo over it more defensive instructions from Aria guide listen to the work being done by the guide Mar Masina there he is he's indicating to his players where the goal posts are and he has a rosary there on his right hand bringing everything to the table restart for Brazil try to bring it into the center but Colombia cut it off well Hernandez losing Midfield and the goal scored by jefo was Brazil's 61st goal in the history of the paral Olympic Games if this result holds it'll be the 24th win for Brazil in the history of the competition so since uh 2004 rolling forward it's loose in the area jinho got a toucha had to be sharp yeah good piece of Defending there from Martinez n turns n nonato just wide he almost went all the way nonato didn't he able to slice his way through 1 V one with Aria left foot on the ball unable to place it on frame colia turn that really just shows you what lato is capable of he might get a second chance now key up from pandz Rolling it dangerously up the middle Gonzalez heavy contact ball rolls over the goal line turnover ball here come Brazil just over four minutes remain in this gold medal match Brazil Lead 1 to nil chinho Chino Perez steals it rato quickly back on defense goes cross pitch Gonzalez the instructions from the guides is Gonzalez yeah less than four minutes to go now just to point out that Colombia are at three team fouls so two more and Brazil have the direct free kick little anger there from the Colombians they wanted the fast restart [Applause] that is nonato the tournament's leading goal scorer here is his chance almost his fourth goal of the par Olympic Games it would have been his 11th in the history of the competition he scored six in Tokyo Michael and hikaro were going to jump back in substitutions being prepared by the looks of things on the Brazilian bench you can see mik Kong preparing to join R cardino so Colombian need the equalizer and they have two Fords on the bench L Koka who did play in the group stage and Julian har the 23-year-old Ford yet to make his debut in the paral Olympic Games so you know good question to ask yourself right now is Fernando cardio going to you know have these players enter the conteston Jun very strong defender on for Brazil looking to protect this lead yeah I said this in the beginning of the broadcast but one of the only two players alongside Jonathan who were not part of the squad in Tokyo look at the shots there 10 for Brazil Five On Target one of those went in giving Chase galz tracks turns looking for Pettis ptis has it one on four dancing evading dishing good defending again from nonato sensing a jersey pull the arm went in the air yeah he was halted in his tracks by uh by John Gonzalez and just to translate to our viewers this this assistance here is just incredible isn't it this is this is awesome and just to translate to our viewers this the uh Colombian guide said Lura which means your Left Foot Right so he was trying to indicate to Perez it's it's the communication that we were talking about he was trying to indicate to pres that he was supposed to work his way inside and get on that left foot fantastic inputs these athletes get from the sound of the ball from the sound of the guides they translate that into incredible physical action 245 remain Brazil looking to preserve this one- nil lead they will [Music] restart cardino dances away continues up the kickboard this is the third of the field that Brazil want to be playing in Columbia dump it out happy to shepher it over the goal line turnover possession 14 fouls for Columbia now so one more and Brazil have the direct free kick Nikon coming forward see that ardia had to wait until that ball rolled into the goalkeeper area before he could play it Colombia pressing forward n it's off the post almost another goal as from nonato such an incredible individual effort his his footwork really is something else isn't it absolutely now Perez is trying to come up the other way just keeps it inside the goal line Lan snatches it as it enters into the goalkeeper area heavy contact play on again for n yeah wide again he's had his chances has anate always dangerous here's pz what a block by Nikon maybe a matchs saer yeah you heard the reaction from the bleachers that well could have been the Colombian equalizer contact as mik presses forward continuing still in possession heav heavy tackle [Music] call voy and fair tackle play on pz that's a heavy push from Cil I think a bronze medal doesn't mean something to these guys Anthony they are really attacking defending with everything they've got yeah a late equalizer would be historic really for I doesn't seem likely though less than 30 seconds at this moment Brazil with their sixth straights par Olympic medal we are inside the final seconds of this bronze medal match perhaps one final opportunity for Colombia Spectators ardia says boys time's running out everything forward [Music] tago de Silva piranha along the kickboards as we are going to have a timeout last chance for Columbia to make a set play and Brazil last chance to prepare for that assault yeah last chance for for Fabi vasconcelos the 50-year-old head coach you see there to pass out instructions to his players Fernando [Applause] Kio is doing the same in the Colombian dugouts and here's that earlier run from nonat able to muscle his way through punch his way through 1 V one the shot took a touch off the post almost Brazil seconda had a touch as well another save for [Applause] Jania a sense of the incredible attacking skill of nonato leading goal scorer in the tournament nearly adding to his total there now the tree color are being applied in the stands the gold medal match upcoming there's n he is the top scorer of the competition three goals to his name jeffo and Juan Perez from Columbia have [Music] two Argentina have reached the final with only one goal scored my friend and none conceeded it's all about timing isn't it yeah that that that goal scored by osalo Fernandez against Japan 20 seconds remain it will be Brazil with the restart Colombia will have to come out and attack turnover possession and go up field really quickly if they're going to create an offensive chance here comes the Colombian attack [Music] free kick awarded to Colombia so this will be their one chance to launch 13 seconds on the clock yeah if Columbia want to drive forward Now's the Time 13 seconds got to move almost 35 MERS and get a shot away Hernandez rolls it through but Luan cooly retrieves and and that will do it for Brazil final buzzer sounds and Brazil have claimed the bronze medal in blind football yeah congratulations to Brazil their sixth straight uh par Olympic medal in in blind football the first time it's not gold it's a third place finish for the Brazilians but you really have to praise you really have to congratulate the Colombians as well right a fourth place finish on their Paro Olympic debut is historic they reach the semi-finals as the top team of group b a tough team right with with with with with strong squads like Argentina like Japan like Morocco uh as well so you really have to congratulate these guys for being on this on this uh very stage the big stage right perhaps the biggest of them all the goal from japino the difference as Brazil claiming the bronze medal by a one nothing score yeah he go L of 24 minutes into the match there's a prayer there from from John Gonzalez the Colombian Striker jeffo with his 10th goal in the history of the par Olympic Games is second this competition enough to hand Brazil the bronze medal so it will be yet another trip to the podium for Brazil question now who's going to finish with gold who's going to finish with silver my friend it's going to be good huh it is metal game day as we have a look at the final match statistics but as you said Anthony only one stat that really counts and that's the top one yeah but I think these numbers really translate to what we saw over the course of the game right Brazil with more ball possession more shots more shots on Target and more goals that's not always the case but especially in the second half that's what that's what we saw so this is the updated final rank Brazil in third right China beat Morocco to finish in fifth turkey beat Japan to finish in seventh and Brazil beat Columbia to finish in third with the Bron onal so only two rankings remaining to be decided and that is rank one and rank two and that will be in the gold medal match Brazil have claimed the bronze medal had to fight for it that moment of magic from jeffinho yeah the difference let jeffinho be the Difference Maker right let let let him be the star man he is the guy to him and hearo the two players who can really tilt the match in a in in a certain direction so Brazil of group a two wins two three-nil wins against turkey and France nil nil with China penalty shootout loss after goal as draw against Argentine in the semis but then a rebound win against Colombia in the bronze medal match nice to see the Colombian flag there making its presence known in the bleachers and here are the Brazilians [Applause] Lui M Jonathan and Matos are the players taking a well-deserved lap of honor around the Eiffel Tower Stadium huge congratulation as well to the men under Fernando Kio Johan ardia Alex Martinez [Music] [Music] [Applause] oh no [Music] Brazil have claimed the bronze medal only one match remains in blind football yeah just to you know just to conclude my train of thought a huge congratulation as well to the Colombian players right who were managed by Fernando Kio so Joan ardia Alex Martinez Jon Hernandez JN Gonzalez Juan Perez Freddy Lopez Jus Lopez loo coka julan Haro and John Gomez those are the players who finished fourth at the par Olympic Games nice to see the Mexican flag there fans from all over the world have gathered here in Paris for the par Olympic Games bronze medal match has been concluded Brazil have claimed the bronze medal gold medal match to come [Music] [Applause] h [Applause] [Music] Happ spee spee for spee [Music] let [Music] now get it now get it [Music] feel good about [Music] [Music] hear [Music] [Music] he show [Music] [Music] [Music] every [Music] [Music] [Music] WI [Music] [Music] oh [Applause] [Music] [Music] can [Music] now [Music] [Music] [Music] me [Music] [Music] [Music] me [Music] [Music] [Music] to [Music] [Music] [Music] me me [Music] [Music] she [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] good [Music] [Music] ladies and gentlemen we're now going to invite you to take part in a mission imagined by Ed marker of [Music] theery you see on the screen go [Music] feel [Music] someine [Music] [Music] [Music] I [Music] particip thank you very much participate withf energy C thanks a lot and don't worry we go even more crazy in a few minutes [Music] [Music] see foreign spee spee here we are with the FR it seems very determined I wonder why it's wearing a helmet it went to the bike it's handling this perfectly wow and the fre is off the reusable bottle has been opened it's getting close to the Fountain and it does it it fills the bottle must say is over and we're back with the free wait it's getting very close to the [Music] flowers yes she saw the sign post that could have been a fny one let's go back to the stands look like free just just picked up a hot dog wow it's vegetarian eat it yes it's good it seems the free has finished eating and is off of it half in the brown the rest in the yellow this really is the recy came from small actions big difference [Applause] sh [Music] [Music] ah [Music] [Music] here we are and I think it all starts with just not being afraid [Music] to years he sacrificed so much the sacrifice is [Music] [Music] they call me a fighter this is my life [Music] [Music] we have taken what a finish what a race what a winner [Music] [Music] [Music] for spe [Music] spe fore [Music] [Music] spee for [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] I ask you when I always [Music] [Music] [Music] you baby I you you [Music] [Music] [Music] B [Music] you he [Music] [Music] [Applause] it's going to be a hot night here in Paris at the M Tower Stadium fr against Argentina in this final here at the P [Music] [Music] [Music] games [Music] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] for [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] for for Fore spee [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Music] [Music] n [Music] more [Music] [Music] [Music] time don't think I you will for you [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] just [Music] [Music] [Music] you the [Music] [Music] [Music] so [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Applause] fin in [Music] [Applause] [Music] spe for [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Music] and ladies and gentlemen in English now let us remind you that here it's completely defly as we say in French I think also in English again if you're against France if you're against Argentina no problem but here we cheer for everyone we cheer for every player we cheer for friends and we cheer for Argentina and don't forget that the live audio description is ready so you can listen to our friend there [Applause] [Music] and now please welcome [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Applause] ladies and gentlemen let us remind you that during the warm up we need complete silence so the player can hear the guides and the balls thank you very much and let's leave the best night of our Lives thank you very much and [Music] fore fore [Music] [Music] [Music] up he [Music] [Music] for for spe we I we for [Music] I spe [Music] spe for [Music] [Music] spe [Music] [Music] spe [Music] spe he [Music] spe [Music] spe [Music] spe [Music] spe spe on for for [Music] told [Music] all I [Music] didn't you miss how you made Al much [Applause] hey for for h [Applause] [Music] [Applause] all [Applause] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] k [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Applause] ladies and gentlemen the end of the war now [Music] [Applause] and no yes yes the FL the FL up in the a where the ladies and gentlemen [Applause] tonight the beautiful in the world we going to have the greatest crowd in the world [Applause] [Applause] for for [Applause] [Music] [Music] [Music] and now our great team [Applause] [Music] BL [Applause] and the athletes enter the field of play at the Eiffel Tower Stadium what a moment for this team from France and now their opponents in the gold medal match the team from Argentina make their way onto the field of play I'm Hans frown love I'm with Anthony Wells Anthony is there any place in the world you would rather be than this my friend what an honor what a privilege it is to be here right beside you this is the place to be from wherever you're watching us around the globe this is certainly an honor to have you here with us this is the bracket this is how things went down France in the final after beating Colombia Argentina are here after beating Brazil in a penalty shootout this is the gold medal [Applause] match now the national anthems of the competing appreciate the French national anthem l h [Music] [Applause] [Music] please standing for the national of [Music] Argentina fore [Music] all national anthems of the competing Nations it is the gold medal match in blind football at this spectacular Arena Eiffel Tower Stadium yeah spectacular is the right word buddy the energy here is just incredible the atmosphere really something else just a few moments away from the kickoff whistle to get us started here is the starting five for France led by their Captain Frederick Vu yeah all eyes on Vu who scored the winner against Colombia in the semifinals four players in this French Squad won the silver medal in London in 2012 12 years ago Vu G rier heski and Bon Vu the leader of this team and the real Danger Man on offense di introduced what an atmosphere had has been absolutely sold out right through the tournament here as the substitutes for France Martin Baron starting on the reserves [Applause] bench here have France the second team in group a won the first game against China lost the second game 3-0 to Brazil and then we're able to beat turkey 2-0 in the final match and this semi-finals got the better of Colombia so they are back in the gold medal game after 12 years and here is the starting five for Argentina yeah all eyes on Oswaldo Fernandez he has been the best player for Argentina this competition he scored Argentina's only goal the win against Japan on Match day three enough to see Argentina in the semi finals as the second team in this group e that's MOX Pino he was the MVP of the world championship last year he scored seven goals in Tokyo yet to find of the back of the net though at this par Olympic Games he'll certainly be hoping to change that tonight the sun sets over Paris we see the reserves for Argentina each team allowed to S make six substitutions each half in blind football players obviously visually impaired B1 athletes Reserve goalkeeper yeah the Reser long time stall yeah di Nena 44 years of age he is at his sixth par Olympic Games two silver medals two bronze medals for Argentina no gold though here are the officials from Belgium Mexico France and Brazil Tom de International refereeing team as usual Tom de bruyne the main referee he was the second ref at the final in Tokyo and official as well for second division games in Belgium you see him Center Stage right there and Anthony one way or the other history will be made tonight for the first time somebody else other than Brazil is going to be the Gold Medal winner at the par Olympic Games in blind football yeah absolutely the last time Argentina were here it was in Tokyo the 2020 Paro Olympics that were of course played in 21 due to the covid-19 pandemic a 1- nil loss to Brazil with n scoring a goal a wonder goal really that made headlines across the globe the last time the French were here 12 years ago not not too far from Paris right just just across the channel in London a 2-n loss to the Brazilians so what's going to happen tonight my friend that is the question everyone is asking themselves Hometown support overwhelming of course for France number of supporters here for Argentina as well but they are well outnumbered by this part and crowd enjoying the atmosphere as they've done right through the tournament not just for blind football but the entire par Olympic Games it's been absolutely fantastic as the athletes make their way for final conversations before kickoff yeah and there's T aqu he's really a legend when it comes to blind football here in France 57y old in his second spell as manager since 2018 he's a three-time European champ in his first spell won the competition in 2009 and 2011 and then 2 years ago in 2022 in piscata Italy how did Argentina get here right we talked about France Argentina started off the competition goal as tie with Morocco goal as tie with Colombia and a 1- nil slim victory over Japan this is Antonio figeroa in charge of Los Morelos the bats that's their nickname fantastic that's of course using sense of sound to find things and if you've never enjoyed enjoyed blind football before the sense of sound so important crucial in this sport the ball has a sound making device The Outfield players are wearing ey Shades the goalkeepers are fully cited they act as guides in the defensive end coaches also act as guides and there is a guide in the offensive end there you can see the referee Tom DEA shaking the ball the ball will make a sound that's how the athletes find the ball yeah and this wide angle very important Hans to illustrate how the pitch is divided into 3/ thirds right so in the middle third that's where the the coach can communicate to the players right in the attacking third that's the work of the guide and then the goalkeeper does that in the defensive third in theory my friend right cuz sometimes you know they bend the rules a little bit this incredibly respectful audience fall silent as we prepare to kick off in the gold medal match [Music] France kicks off and we are underway in the gold medal match France playing in the dark blue uniforms playing left to right Argentina light blue and white uniforms abing right to left 25 minute halves we're underway yeah fasten your seat belts ladies and gentlemen and it's expected to be good of course in regular football we count up towards 45 minutes in blind football we count down from 15 in each half each team is allowed four fouls starting from the fifth the opposing side gets a direct free kick from the 8 Meer Mark important rules pertaining to cesi Foot Right blind football in French that has no off sides and no sideline throws see the boards there pressing forward for France will roll over the goal line turnover [Music] ball starts to play for Argentina rolling forward that rectangular area the goalkeepers are in cannot exit that area they cannot play the ball outside that area ball goes over the kickboards out of play that cause a restart you see there osalo Fernandez he has been the best player for our Argentina Argentina in the competition thus far four matches played three ties one win just one goal scored enough to see losel sneak into the final but they are the favorites against France when it comes to blind football they are one of the superpowers Argentina World Champions won the world championship last year in in leaing China in the final maxino was the MVP there he isesi shielding and shepherding the ball back over the goal line turn over possession for France they will restart here is the captain [Music] Fu lovely pass push to um Fernandez snapshot that was not far wide Waldo Fernandez the danger man for Argentina he's playing his first par Olympic Games 26 years of age for the midfielder from wi Otis started playing blind football at the age of 10 he was at the world championship last year he was at the parapan uh in Santiago Chile as well it's very easy to spot him on the pitch with the the Mohawk there usually him and espo have some sort of cool hairstyle going they've certainly brought that to the gold medal game certainly the occasion to do so you're absolutely right fif y receiving some attention after hard contact in the kickboard we'll have a pause in the action while he receives some attention fantastic fantastic capacity crowd here on hand at the Eiffel Tower Stadium there's fge the par Olympic game mascot on the head of that young fan yeah very easy to spot F huh oh yeah absolutely f is everywhere in Paris very very popular and the chance of Al BL ring out it's gold for the blues according to that sign you man some discomfort think he will need to be substituted and in fact it will be Maran B preparing to come onto the pitch for France very unfortunate khif such an important part of that French defense so strong at the back yeah we certainly hope it's nothing serious with khif Martin B the 37-year-old forward on the field G is one of the four players that were in London 12 years ago missed out in Tokyo due to an ACL injury started playing BL football in [Music] 2004 play restarts theoo tracking the ball good defensive screen there from Delo possession turned over Jak pressing forward it was a good run though able to win France the corner kick the first corner kick of the game hopeful prayers from the French faithful yeah Al BL is what we hear from the stands the French very much with the home field advantage needless to say the Eiffel Tower stadium has been the place to be in Paris during the par Olympic Games fantastic end of the tournament looking for Lo tries to turn B seeks G Theo contests into traffic J so strong across the boards but it's a free kick awarded little bit too too aggressive with the defense there yeah there's actually a funny story pertaining to Espino he is Fran P's brother-in-law so he is married to Roan's sister you want to make sure that the Home Fires are being well looked after in that situation with a teammate don't you 100% buddy beo for the ball to take this free kick good set piece opportunity here for Argentina early in this game marking Fernandez closely he's the danger man finding space [Applause] bobbing and weaving Vu dispossesses and contests hard fight along the kickboard Dak excellent turnak diak tumbles as he tries to get past Fernandez crowd didn't like it but that contact was quite incidental Fernandez contesting for the loose ball yeah nice run from ahed Yak the 41-year-old he was born in [Music] morania competed in Tokyo was at the world championship last year as well moved to France at 29 years of age perhaps in strike range for front so we will listen to the setup this is the first blind football match you've ever seen listen to the instructions quick set piece start jakit tries a quick fire shot wide of the mark the sound making from The Sound making device from within the ball [Music] launches trickles dangerously into the goalkeeper area B Luchi had to be sharp goalkeepers of course fully [Applause] cited into the penalty area shephered out ESI be a corner for [Music] Argentina the arent time guide yeah goni very vocal very vocal guide I can tell you that good communicator you're going to hear him quite a lot throughout the [Music] broadcast on the restart from the corner snapshot attempt from espido wide fero searching [Music] Herz tracking back turns and he's awayo Fernandez tries to move into into the field runs over the end line by Fernandez really impressed with the speed on Fernandez right andc andc steps on the gas really really tricky to uh to stop him corner kick conceded by Argentina and his second spell as manager since 2018man played the ball but went over the goal line alert refereeing corner kick awarded marked in B he has scored his goal in this tournament from a corner kick situation up with off in the Box looking for V intercepted by Del Fernandez got on [Music] contesting returning possession to Mich looking for Fernandez ball loose Fernandez down the line tries to make a stabbing kick into the [Music] area heavy contest on the kickboard Delo screens out shephered over the goal line defending from Padia yeah fan Padia experienced Defender he's 45 years old Padia he's at his fourth par Olympic Games he was team of the tournament at the world championship in 2014 in Tokyo and in 2018 in Madrid so he's only the kind of athlete who knows how to perform on a big stage like this one keeping in mind Argentina have not conceded a goal in the competition thus far they've only scored one but they haven't conceded any might impressive defending yeah Fran Padia and the captain who you see on the bottom of your screen here Delo to thank for [Music] that moves past B over the goal line France Pi on attack turns good intercept by Delo he makes the [Music] turn strong contest [Applause] feroo ranging forward another Savvy play from Padia since that fero was there fired to off Vu to get the turnover ball has to land short of halfway to be legal it is runs just beyond Fernandez the ball is thrown and it goes over halfway it's a foul contact Hernandez looking for espo Yak again quickly back in defense but just loses control near the goal line trickle over the goal line for a corner for Argentina yeah a little over 5 minutes into the game so far an even game really no clear FC scoring chances on either side so it really has all the all the characteristics of of a final right those teams finding their way into this match guys giving instructions off the set piece espo now it's Delo contesting Jak so strong on the kickboard Theo contesting Delo away with it on getting possession sends it up the field contact from pavilla he'll have to make a play but he doesn't it will be a corner for France Frederick Vu imploring the crowd to Make Some Noise French Captain knows that he's got about 9,000 teammates here in the Eiffel Tower Stadium yeah at least H good good defending from the French able to to to Halt the Argentine attack and then right after that just move the ball up the pitch both teams defending very well [Music] though and baron setting up on the corner for France three in the wall for Argentina it's a good turn from ja just losing control and it will be another corner and just to inform our viewer of course the crowd is urged to remain silent but then when the ball is out of play that's when they can can make noise crowd has adapted marvelously to this sport very respectful very knowledgeable loving this sport as we do looking for V possession turns closely by Delo Theo fero snapshot off the side of the net there you see the danger of Frederick Vu he didn't have much of an angle there did he but was not afraid to attempt the shot [Music] Airborne sliding attempt from Fernandez to get control here again loose recovered by paa Paia coming [Music] forward contesta continues B runs over the end line and it will be a corner for Argentina good forward attack from Padia coming from his back position nice flow too yeahia tracking back at his fourth par Olympic [Applause] Games I think they're talking about Anthony trying to think of some strategy to squeeze their way through Fernandez found a way to do it very nearly a scoring chance for Fernandez Jack forward for France tracking Fernandez strong on defense now he's forward Fernandez huge stop there from Vu ralo Fernandez as you said Anthony the danger man yeah he was lurking he really has the pace he really has the speed such an agile midfielder capable of weaving his way through as we have seen really on a number of occasions throughout the competition and this ball possession right now it's 50/50 it's an even game absolutely is gold medal match Mar possession turnover Argentina on attack Hernandez valoo contesting whistled down foric valoo can't believe it either in the crowd [Music] not happy with that call the French Captain I like this play from BCI coming out to calm him down the thread playing great don't do something silly here in the gold medal match well it is going to in fact be a corner or free kick to France foul called on Argentina restart for B good run [Applause] from took it into the penalty area this could not quite connect [Applause] see how much patience is required to be a goalkeeper in blind football you want to reach out beyond that rectangle but you know you can't barucci very patient AR now [Applause] turn defensive play byki screening hard against that kickboard battle with [Applause] Fernandez unloads to the other side of the pitch where it's recovered by espano espano oh very nearly creating a scoring chance for himself yeah nice run there from Espino he wears a number seven jersey that's the amount of goals he scored in Tokyo seven goals for Espino he was the second top scorer of the competition behind only fromo who had eight now a corner kick on the other side very even contest it's the gold medal match in blind football final match of the competition comption it has been an absolutely Splendid competition we started with eight teams we are down to the final two France and Argentina making their bid will it be gold for Le BL we will find out after this match is said and done see the corner kicks there six split right down the middle three on each side turn and find the middle of the pitch passes into space Vu heavy contact with ESP ja Fernandez defending strongly espo with the turn forward it's coming forward espano espano great save by bamui but once again [Applause] the Argentine guide there I saw the reaction from y he couldn't believe it Maxi was One V one the with contact and a push there is espedal yeah this is a final right H so it's a very calculated game really a calculated game the team the teams don't want to take too many risks it's a timeout right now a good opportunity for us to just to kind of re recap the the par Olympic medals on both sides so France have one silver medalists at the par Olympics in London in 2012 Argentina have four two silver medals in Athens in 2004 and Tokyo 2020 and two bronze medals from Rio in 2016 and Beijing 2008 so both teams do not have a gold medal they certainly want to change that tonight well it will change for one of these teams as we look at the we presume a foul that stopped play but espil looking dangerous on attack with the ball at his feet and look at that what a sight as day turns tonight in Paris and the Eiffel Tower begins to light up in the background Trier are flying around this Stadium yeah sooner we're going to get the light show the Eiffel Tower is going to start blinking absolutely quite a sight to see certainly is it's been a very tough ticket to get the football in Paris as was the beach volleyball my friend there we see the large cutout figures of this French team the people of Paris and the people of France have supported these paralympic games absolutely magnificently of course they're supporting their teams but they're supporting all the athletes it has been an absolutely Splendid par Olympic Games yeah the competitions really have been phenomenal just incredible energy atmosphere so the match is about to restart right Hans and Argentina have the set piece I think it's important for us to also point out a couple of recent results well I'll get to that just a few moments let's let's listen to the uh the work being done from the Guide G well he's actually being shown a yellow card so little bit too much input at the inappropriate time from the guide yellow card is being shown [Music] Herz his attack Jack looking for possession contest on the kickboard Del contesting fiercely comes away with it and heavy contact theki Hernandez on the kickboard Bon comes forward for France temporarily gets possession fighting for at Martin Baron backed up by his captain belu Fernandez screening with his body trying to create space for espo he turns now Hernandez wins the battle French Captain one on two Frederick Vu goal for France my friend this is what we call the text book for lasso Counterattack recovered possession in the defensive third and he went all the way he went for Glory and he certainly found it here's the replay look at the changing direction right there oops Daisy see you later buddy the left footed shot pass hit on M one nil France the Eiffel Tower Arena erupts the roar I think gave the Eiffel Tower a healthy shake my goodness what a goal from the French Captain Vu and he knows what a moment this is he's now tied for top score of the tournament alongside Brazil's mon both players with three goals each well and what a timely marker late in the first half of this gold medal game that brings the crowd to their feet they're going to have to settle down again in a moment but what a goal from frederck vu [Applause] ask for silence as we restart France W Argentina no Score first half of the gold medal game please please like Brazil [Applause] Adia launches into the air into the penalty area it's a goal Maxi has been Theo gold Argentina yeah my friend this is something that you don't see every day a quick response from Argentina just seconds after France score off the restart the long ball for Espino he was in the right place at the right time the perfect touch on the ball to beat alesandro marui a goal each way you know I've said this before Hans I'll say it again fast in your seat belts buddy absolutely it's going to be good that aerial pass from Padia setting up the late touch from [Music] espano and he pushes it across the goal line to level it well you wanted a gold medal match folks you have absolutely got one here Maxi ESP benil leveling it yeah his first goal of the paral Olympic [Music] Games he's got nine now in the history of the sport scored once in Rio seven times in Tokyo finds the back of the net for the first time in Paris keeping in mind espo was the MVP of the world championship last year in Birmingham look at the shots there 4v4 ouch would not want to bealo Fernandez there heavy contact you can see from the reaction of the spectators part luch being asked to return to the goalkeeper area heavy contact V [Music] the goal scorer for France but really far too aggressive with that [Applause] tackle yeah that goal very important for for Argentina to get the South Americans back into the match well first we see this goal again from Vu what a piece of magic from the French captain and then just as quickly Padia with the pass and the touch and Argentina just as quickly as that level the score and you saw the reaction there from G Kon the guide he really enjoyed it absolutely he did this really is an incredible game hun because we have the European Champions versus the world champions right Argentina world champions last year France European Champions a couple years ago in bisca in Italy beating turkey in the final in a penalty shootout alalo Fernandez having to come to the sidelines after suffering that heavy contact and it will be Jes meros on in substitution for Argentina keeping in mind if this result holds we're going to have a penalty shootout just one penalty shootout in the competition thus far it was in the semi-final game between Argentina and Brazil Argentina won 4 to3 again Padilla going to the air this worked once try it again B all captures contact maros hard into the kickboard using strong body positioning to Shield the ball backo but Baron contests good stop from Padia Theo coming back to clean up he will come up the kickboard and now he suffers heavy contact from espil a little bit like a hockey game out there they make him tough in blind football there is no doubt about that yeah I mean we we talked about this in the earlier game right Hans you really have to praise the resilience the strength of these players right cuz they're running into each other at full force running into the board right and then they just get back up and play on that's sometimes you wish you see you want to see that more in regular football exactly that three kick award at France Ben Andi standing over the ball looking for Vu good take by Vu double teamed however Don all comes up to assist the area [Music] [Applause] B arms waving all over the pitch if I'm not mistaken Hans France are moving up right now to 14 fouls so one more and Argentina get the direct free kick would be a free kick without a wall and the yellow card is out for the French Captain fedck guu yeah he doesn't like it does he disagrees two yellows will see him sent from the match so for Garo it's fine to have emotions and play hard but yeah I was right my friend we're at 14 fouls so one more and Argentina get the direct free kick from the 8 meter Mark no wall it's called the double penalty so situation of blind football 246 remain in the first half so France will have to be mindful of that yeah and with 2 minutes and 46 seconds on the clock that's more than enough time for Argentina to get that opportunity see if Pia goes to the air again yes he does Lofts it looking for espo good intercept by diak he sends it back into the Argentine third of the field over the goal line it on the turf this time pass that's panilo looking to atone to space tries to cut to the Penalty Area Head It Off by Merles corner kick and Fredick Vero immediately inciting the crowd yeah he's matching the energy from the bleachers isn't he absolutely orchestrating it yeah totally badia Melos will be in the defensive wall we can see Mar into Corner let's see where France put their attacking players the treor are waving around the Eiffel Tower Stadium so far my oh absolutely everything you could ask for [Music] 111 and it is good to see asalo Fernandez returning to play came off temporarily after that heavy contact with P he is back onto the field of play Jesus merlos comes to the sidelines got him on M goalkeeper and guide think Fernandez into a defensive position locked with an important defensive [Music] stop TCH from ranging forward LCI had to watch that one carefully rolls over the goal line turning playing forward runs over the goal line turnover wall France 139 remain in the first half of this gold medal game we are tied at one good turny contact from paa wins the ball solid piece of Defending there from Padia one of the best defenders to ever play this sport really turns again a long range shot block regains possession again Stout defense from Argentina heavy contact with [Applause] B lay whistle down players absolutely leaving laying their bodies on the line in this gold medal [Applause] game the supporters making Braille signs that's awesome that is absolutely awesome alele blue in Braille F once again tremendous tremendous [Applause] [Music] [Music] crowd the restarts immediately goes searching for Baron intercepted by Hernandez Fernandez intercepted by Vu mendz heavy contact again to the turf it's been a tough tough gold medal match rosaldo Fernandez and again he's in some discomfort yeah it's your corner kick for Argentina but you saw what G you saw his reaction he wanted the foul because France are at 4 43 seconds remain and osalo Fernandez is that player to win the fifth foul right cuz he's the guy charging forward him and maxpo [Music] [Applause] [Applause] referee not happy with the restart turnover ball for [Applause] [Music] France Retreats into the middle third is B he goes to the air trying padia's tactic blocked by Delo Delo coming forward now and Helo well that was a little bit of elabor ation I think forward the looking for it intercepted by herandez [Music] Fernandez beats B Fernandez up the kick board lovely Inside Out move trickles it across the goal mouth ESP 7 seconds left will they get a chance to get a shot on goal it's pil and and the buzzer sounds to end the first half what a first half it has been in this gold medal match France and Argentina deadlocked at one yeah goalie France scored first with vi just a few seconds after that off the restart Argentina with the equalizer with the Moxi espo in just a few moments you're going to check out the numbers and we're really going to see how this match is even both goal scores finding the back of the net in the 12th minute right V with his third goal in the competition Maxi espo with his first this is the first goal conceded by Argentina and the second goal uh scored by R was important for us to to point out here H this is the first time that Argentina and France are facing each other in the history of the par Olympic Games wow but we can point out some results on the big stage that show that Argentina are the favorites right so both sides did meet in the group stage of the Grand Prix that was held last year in Brazil 3-0 win for Argentina and in the group stage of the world championship back in 2018 in Madrid another 3-0 win for Argentina so history says right Argentina are the favorites but you know when it comes down to what we've seen on the field thus far in these first 15 minutes of actual playing time I mean it's an even contest buy let's get to the highlights right now valo Fernandez we talked about this guy before the kickoff whistle we're talking about this guy now I mean this guy's been the danger player foros over the course of the competition and VI has been the guy for France right so it'll be interesting to see how both of these teams come back for the second half right what is uh uh Antonio Figaroa going to say to his players where is T aqu going to say to his players and what an extraordinary goal one of the goals of the tournament just far thus far look at the the the the change in Direction there right in the 2V1 situation he was able to find the space find the angle and just find igas this is The Equalizer from maxus [Music] Pino what a gaso what a pass really it was and look at this isn't that a picture let's just enjoy this doesn't get any better than this does [Music] it stats tied at one yeah four shots One On Target for France that's the one that went in two for Argentina possession 50/50 so really the second half is expected to be just awesome as magical as this scene yep 100% buddy couldn't agree with you more look at the energy huh listen to this place is there anywhere else in the world we could be than Paris France [Music] final game of blind football at the Eiffel Tower Stadium become an iconic venue even though it's a temporary venue constructed for the Olympics and the par Olympic Games I think it's very quickly turned itself into one of the amazing places in sport that we're always going to remember yeah absolutely Paris is already an international City but it becomes even more International right during competitions like this when you have people from all over the globe that are here bringing their energy bringing different cultures um for this magical City and and I think this wide shot here really just illustrates that right absolutely Eiffel Tower a glow so we have the the Eiffel Tower in the background everyone switched on the flashlights on their phones what a light show Absolutely pure entertainment continues here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium but Anthony we're going to have a new Gold Medal winner and right now at halftime dead even at 1 France got the early goal well not the early goal but the Magnificent goal from villero but right literally seconds later Argentina turned it around silenced the crowd with an equalizer yeah this is literally anybody's game yeah and it was very important for Argentina to get that equalizer right because by doing so um they kept the pressure from mounting right because if you take long to equalize the pressure pressure it'll it'll build on your team especially when you don't have the home field advantage right especially when the entire arena is rooting for the opposing team so if you concede the most important thing to get back into the match is to equalize as fast as possible and Argentina did exactly that the quickest way possible right off the restart and excellent work from from vyan bad I mean his senses were just incredible to just read the match to lob the ball forward to find espo and and and you know you have to commend espo for positioning himself right there on the edge of the box in front of of of Vari and for for for to communicate with ESP to get him there so really just Top Class blind football absolutely that espil a real goal Hawk when the ball's in the area he's dangerous and he just absolutely willed that ball past portal move it was just a great piece of skill all around yes SPO usually shows up when uh when when his team needs needs needs him to so we saw that at the world championship we saw that in Tokyo last year we're seeing that tonight um so it's going to be fantastic to see how both teams are going to are going to face each other over the course of the second half keeping in mind if this result holds a penalty shootout it's going to settle the gold medal and uh and let's explain how penalties work in blind football yeah so with with with penalty kicks it's it's you know very very similar to to regular football but you have three instead of five right so that brings a different kind of pressure I me there's always pressure on a penalty taker yeah and and and Argentina won the shootout against Brazil 4 to3 in regular football that can seem normal but in blind football it's a lot right because we went past the three initial penalty kicks so I I believe the you know I even lost count there were so many but I believe it was the fifth or sixth yes you know player that ended up settling the the dispute um so this very well could happen again well we are we are tied now and if we're at the tied at the end of the second half then yes it will be penalties to decide the Gold Medal winner yeah ball possession split down the middle 50% 7 Minutes of actual playing time for for both teams so essentially you know playing with the ball rolling um five Corner kicks for France four for for Argentina four shots for the French one on goal four for Argentina two on goal so I mean the numbers speak for themselves right this really has been an even battle on this amazing stage wow it is breathtaking isn't it France suffering an injury to one of their key players Khalifa y early in the first half he was substituted quite early Mar Baron came on and we're not sure what the state of Cala is whether he can return to play in the second half or not but he's an important part of that French defense but martan Lon you have to say played very very well in substitution even though he's more of an attacking player than a Defender he created space and created some opportunities himself yeah we're wrapping up the 10-minute halftime break just a few moments away now from the second half Argentina on their third or rather forgive me France on their third paralympic appearance Argentina on their six gives us one more occasion at the Eiffel Tower Stadium to hear the crowd sing oh oh oh very good Anthony we've all come to love this song during our time in Paris Char not far away from us across the S yep Michael Tower in the background Flags waving fantastic in case you're joining us now from wherever you're watching us around the globe we're very very happy to have you here with us this is the gold medal match of the blind football tournament the cesi foot tournament here at the 2024 par Olympic Games the closing ceremony will be Sunday September 8th lots of French support as you'd expect here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium meeting with history coaches have had their opportunity at halftime to speak with their teams now it's in the hands of the athletes Padia stands over [Music] it play underway in the second half of this gold medal match France won Argentina one France playing in the dark blue jerseys playing right to left in the second half Argentina in the light blue and white jerseys playing left to right Mar Baron on the ball quickly for France [Music] rolls over the goal line turnover ball CR to restart up the kickboard fights for The Possession Fernandez away with it Fernandez Fernandez [Applause] just rolled into the goalkeeper area bamui able to secure it turns it around good attack Fernandez looking for it espo turns it over Scrappy ball Pia stabs it into an open area tracking it French captain [Music] turns good defending Delo for espido that will run over the goal line he talked about anelo on his uh fourth par Olympic Games was part of the squad that won Gold in Birmingham last year he was one of the flag bears for Argentina in the opening ceremony in Santiago for the parapan rough there from Espino cynical foul really from this Guero was dishing a little bit of this out in the first half and now he's on the receiving [Applause] end it's a contest there's a gold medal at stake but no room for foul play it will be a free kick for France [Applause] y takes it into the corner be contact with Fernandez trying to free it for Vu defensive what a contest off the board it's a very physical game isn't it bullying his way [Music] forward clears nervous moments for the French rolling forward [Music] [Music] to espil [Music] ESP heavy contact and will it be a free kick awarded yes it willo on the prowl yeah dangerous set piece for Argentina left to get that supporter there on his feet a very very good goal scoring opportunity for Los Morel yeah the contact came in from [Applause] [Music] D so this is very very close to the Penalty area so the right for Argentina conson will absolutely be involved in this [Applause] shot UI setting the defense for fr screening players for Argentina the post shot save yeah that was a world class save from marui wasn't it great reflex great elasticity from the French goalkeeper to get to it end to end action big stop by Jak he comes forward now to breach the defense Hernandez with the stop Delo now contesting on the board badia comes into assist returns to the keeper M on the start yeah Herman M nicknamed El Toro heavy contact on Baron play on yeah all ball though according to the ref the just possessing [Music] Fernandez Fernandez with the stop on valoy shephards oh an inadvertent touch there I think from the so I think it's going to be a corner here we see the assist of devices allowing the fans to enjoy cited or not this gold medal match snapshot there on the set piece there we can see spectator with the assisted device able to enjoy the action yeah that shot really illustrates how you know BL football has become really an inclusive sport 64 Nations Affiliated to I which is the international blind Sports Federation and the great news is that number has only been increasing red ha meets mod hawk in the corner [Music] [Applause] Herz another Corner opportunity for Argentina this standing over [Applause] it eiel Tower a glow almost a gold tinge almost the short well for France turnover ball an illegal restart for Argentina on the corner it's a let off for France on the set piece looking for B [Music] one kick to back and out of play by Delo so it's a corner for France and the crowd erupts yeah good piece of Defending there from Manel Delo he has been one of the standout Defenders throughout the competition Tito is uh his nickname good to see the younger Generations as well appreciating sassy fut absolutely we absolutely love it the fans here do and we know that you are enjoying it as well wherever in the world you're joining us gold medal match 1 one 40 left in the second half tied after the second half this will go to penalties just one penalty shootout so far in the competition now was that outside the area the guide certainly thought so goalkeeper cannot play the ball outside that rectangle that was close yeah g always always trying to put some pressure on the ref Tom de bruy is not buying it though no very experienced head referee Tom de [Applause] Bry nervous times for the French faithful another corner for Argentina Fernandez and the dangerous espano standing over it touch legal restart quick Snapshot from espano blocked Fernandez tracks it beats B quickly contests adaa helping out makes the turn Outlet espano contested by diak just wide very dangerous on that Left Flank that's where he can find those spaces and really punch his way through Delo comes forward nice defensive play by diakon Tred by fernandis cross the goal line turnover over ball M goalkeeper will restart just drops it for Padia P has created a few by just lobbing passes and he does it again looking for ESP oh rolls into the area good defending byki marking espano closely on that occasion with a good pass back to the keeper get the ball in Midfield turns nearly through yeah lovely change of Direction there from Jak P the Argent TI defense there's The Dugout riosa [Music] meros players who could step in at any moment L one on three no way through but it will be a corner for France deflection off the Argentine player seven corner kick for the [Applause] French jaate stands over Mar 10 B coming in to join him corner kick needs to be touched by a second player before the ball can enter the net see two on the corner kicks contacto opportunity for Frederick Vu away with it good defending by RIS trying to keep it in play it will be a corner for Argentina nervous moments 8:30 left in the second half of this gold medal game and we are deadlocked at oneway French coach looking on capacity crowd here at the Eiffel Tower Stadium Martin's coach anonio Figaroa also sh instructions setting the defense for FR SP he didn't have much of an angle did he but he almost found the goal lovely effort from isil looking for a second of the game a second [Music] for nice change of Direction there that's a characteristic of maxpo he likes to take those Corner kicks short and then shift Direction to open up the defense and have the space for the shot couldn't take a chance had to make a play on it four of esp's six shots were on target do have a nose for the net espano again blocked the Laro with the block runs past tracking Fernandez SP Fernandez fighting forward on the kickboard tries to turn denied by Vu and baron Baron making the turn Vu takes possession heavy contact pess Pano at Midfield crowd didn't like it fick's doing a little bit of refereeing from the seated position yeah almost at the Midway point in this half Hans and it it it really continues to be an even game right you look at ball possession right now 51% versus 49 actual playing time 11 minutes for Argentina 10 minutes for France Argentina with more shots on goal now five against one but still a very calculated [Music] [Applause] game and areski asking for silence restart looking for space contested by Fernandez but it will be a corner kick for France those are the Brazilians that won bronze not too long ago Thiago farana hikaro three times you see him there the right hand side of your screen three times the best blind footballer in the world for the first time since this sport started being played back in 2004 in Athens Brazil are not in the final they are here supporting their fellow athletes which is good to see to the center just pass fero Delo just speculates It Forward Dak regains possession settles turns sends it into the open Wing into space looking for B in battle Padia comes to help out Fernandez with a good intercept was searching screened well Japanese team here as well Kagawa there the Japanese a coach lovely work there for maxpo phenomenal save from alandro Ari the 27-year-old excellent French goalkeeper he competed in Tokyo as well he started playing adaptive football 21 years of age he plays for cesi fut oaz in France his nickname is Sandro his favorite goalkeeper John Luigi one remember him I certainly do yeah 2006 FIFA World Cup [Music] winner rolls into the area Lami had to wait for it to enter that rectangle before he can make the play here Comes Vu French Captain goal scorer for France gets a shot away get some contact lovely work here from Moxy Espino on that earlier play dribbled his way into the area great save from muchi on that near post look at that six shots on MAR muui he was able to stop five the only one didn't go in 6 minutes and 27 seconds on the clock if this result remains we're going to have a penalty shootout Hans well Argentina that's how they got to this final a beat Brazil in a penalty shootout in the semi-final so they've had some experience in that situation it's a situation nobody wants to be in though both sides are going to make their effort to try and score the winner in regular time as the crowd is being implored to get loud here in Paris they don't need much encouragement do they Anthony absolutely not the DJ I me has been doing an excellent job and just bringing [Applause] it the French also important to point out they have six World Championship appearances right so fifth place in England and in WI O sidtis seventh place in Birmingham I wonder if we're going to see our transition to the now famous silent wave yeah you called it buddy silent Ola it's become a feature here at the blind football in Paris remarkable Spectators can still support without making noise substitution espan is going to be given a rest perhaps for the late going it will be Mario Rios onto the pitch yeah the 24y old midfielder he's playing his first par Olympic Games plays for Los m wi football team in Argentina and he was part of the squad that won the bronze medal at the parapan in Santiago last year once again the aerial tactic from [Applause] Padilla that's set up the goal Argentina is continuing that tactic Works keep doing it ja trying to Corell that ball before it goes over the goal line saw the race with the ref wasn't it he almost got in the way that's something you don't see every day so it will be a corner for Argentina now the volume can come back to the wave well we've got a stoppage in play fantastic atmosphere I mean this place is just unbelievable Anthony yeah the energy is just incredible silent wave back pass back he a little bit too clever runs back over the goal line and it will be a restart for France Baron at Midfield for V returns dispossessed contesting [Music] Rios good attack from Mario Rios just onto the pitch there's a tight frame of areski he was one of the four players that were in London 12 years ago he was born in Algeria and he was the best player at the 2010 French cup won the 2009 Euros with for Bond c a wonderful quotei as you say born in Algeria Algeria brought me into the world but France saved my life life saving medical assistance when he came to France so incredible powerful quote quote there setting the defense fernandz earning another Corner good block from Bon FR defensive wall holding solido conone yeah three consecutive Corner kicks for the South [Music] Americans the back pass Rios and again batt him with the block and again the corner yeah make it four now 525 remains corner kick number 13 for Argentina 21 Corner kicks thus far in the game Hans that is a lot tells you how much offensive pressure both teams are trying to [Applause] apply Fernandez in Rios in the corner Rios turns again B on with the block for the stolen by Fernandez asalo Fernandez turns Fernandez just wide good turns though from Asal Fernandez Mar laui restarts looking for Vu assisted by Padia again to the air off the kickboard is key with space comes forward for one of the few times in the match for areski areski aim areski [Applause] contesting syst device allowing every fan to enjoy the game fantastic technology through the field up the board can see where the position players are positioned terrific stuff less than five minutes remain my friend very very close to a penalty shootout and someone score a late winner Padia again launches the lob towards the penalty area a little bit of a grazing touch from morz sends it over the goal line so it will be yet another corner for Argentina corner kick number 22 two team fouls right so play clever play cleared away desperately by comes forward to follow it Jak contesting turning it's a battle on the kickboard back but that's going to be over the line it's going to be a corner for France yeah and just just to translate to our viewers I don't know if you guys heard but G said suda right so that that's the left foot so basically he was telling osalo Fernandez to take the shot with his left foot as he was working his way in communication is key obviously yeah the crucial role of the guides in line football golender is fully cited coach is fully cited the guides fully cited communicating to their players it is a true unit and diakite stand over it in the cornero where is he the inside of the penalty area being marked very closely by Fernandez Jack turns Shields with his body jack pushed back to Midway by Rios Delo join some attack guu comes forward Fernandez up the wing turns just loses contact that was looking dangerous restart F good defensive stop from Padia and a good touch from Baron ball loose Padia recovers ja makes contact's tracking the ball desperate shouts from the guides B heavy contact from Rio play on more heavy contact by [Music] diak now appeal being made by the player on the ground yeah it's Mario Rios I believe who's on the turf Yi checking in with him there's Ahmed Dak the 41y old born in morit played in Tokyo he was at the world championship last year what a way to rebound for the French right I mean in Tokyo they they finish an eighth yeah they were dead last you know now guaranteed a metal what color is it going to be is it going to be silver is it going to be gold exactly that their place in the tournament as the host nation but have formed magnificently here on home [Applause] soil the French faithful trying to Rally their team 307 remain in the second half it is the gold medal batch France Argentina we are deadlocked at one Mario Rios back on his feet after that heavy heavy contact and it will be Maxi espano returning to the [Music] pitch seemed like it was a matter of time before he returned to the field of play goal scorer for [Applause] Argentina yeah only his first goal of the competition Argentina second is ESP this is Fredick guo French Captain standing over the ball great listen at the sound making device inside the ball referee shakes it four play restarts it will be a corner for France Garo again encourages his countrymen and Country women to make noise yeah and how important an experience is theu right he started playing blind football for our viewers to have an idea back in 1998 wow he was the uh best player of the Euros in 2009 and then 10 years after that in 2019 team so he's really the type of player who knows how to perform you know on a big stage like this one sustained Excellence place for unev B here in France a week in bordo before the Olympic Games beautiful place never been but it's on the list buddy it's worth a trip you'll be the tour guide happy too three in the wall for arent Ina B Jack on theart B turns rolls it across the area and Vu was [Applause] lurking over the goal line so be Argentina to restart let's see if pava goes to the air yet again keeps it on the ground this time looking for Fernandez's going to roll over the goal line restart agressive defense from Fernandez it's Pano coming forward had a rest that one trickles over the goal line well shielded by diakite as espo retreats to a defensive position [Music] [Applause] espo also one of the flag bearers for Argentina in the opening ceremony in Tokyo feel the tension raising a little bit here in the Eiffel Tower Stadium 220 remain we are tied at the end of the second half we will go to penalty kicks to decide the gold medal if we don't have enough drama ja full stretch trying to block but it goes past him and it's espano with [Music] possession good defensive St from Vu J block by espano turnover Ball B deflects but it's going to be a corner for Argentina two team fouls on either side Argentina with a little bit more ball possession in this final stretch a little bit more actual playing time 52% 13 minutes of actual playing time 25 Corner kicks buddy that's a lot that is a lot see the referee shaking the ball as now the athletes get [Music] possessional and that's in the corner for artina well blocking called from Fernandez free kick for France French faithful hoping for a late goal 149 remain Jackie t for heavy contact and will be a corner for France yeah everyone on the edge of their seats huh absolutely including us yeah including us 139 just a little over 90 seconds till the penalty shootout BRS will do everything they can to avoid this this is a good offensive opportunity Argentina had a lot of corner kicks as we see the tree Coler waving at the Eiffel Tower [Music] Stadium keeping close to Valero biloo drifting outside the penalty area just trying to create some space for himself see if they're try to work the ball to B takes it into contact and it will go over the goal line so it will be a turnover so the offensive opportunity gone for France and at the Argentina now on the restart Fernandez good block Fernandez quickly back on defense but it goes over the goal line it will be another corner for France de who watch the crowd he watched this energy absolutely 121 to go France with another corner kick in there attacking [Applause] third great look at this pitch 40 m by 20 M same dimensions as [Applause] foot three in the wall [Music] oh Baron fought the ball into the air and it trickles into the keeper rectangle Lu has to wait for it to enter that rectangle before he can play it of course that one over the goal line quick restart or Lami contesting Fernandez wins the ball asalo Fernandez contact areski turnover diak Fernandez back espo gets a touch Padia [Applause] Retreats now Play Whistle down and a yellow card is going to be shown to Maxi ESP pil let's see what's causing this yellow card [Applause] infraction no heavy contact but I supect the yellow card happened after the contact seem to be a little bit of extracurricular activity after the players hit the turf 41 seconds to go my friend if this result holds if we don't get a late winner the penalty shootout is going to decide the gold medal and we could see the substitutes warming up because they may be called on in the penalty shootout if it goes beyond three Mar oos a substitute for Argentina was one of the kickers against Brazil in the semis there's aqu what's going through his head right now come on he's been it before right he was the coach for France at the par Olympics in London in 2012 won the European Championship three times won the penalty shootout against turkey in the finals a couple years ago in in piscata in Italy see the French substitutes also getting warm everybody's got to be ready at this stage 41 seconds left France with the free kick Yak gets it on goal easily by M sends it up the field looking for espano he's the goal scorer for Argentina espano turns heavy contact whistle down free kick nice little nutmeg there on areski absolutely dangerous set piece for Argentina there is that nutmeg you're talking about see you later absolutely nice little display there ofab Bonito [Applause] well the crowd have got more than their money's worth in this [Applause] one celebrating sport of course supporting France but really so supportive of all the para athletes the drums are out flags are [Applause] out yeah men and women young and old fing the bleachers that's awesome to see marui from the looks of it ja yeah I think it's Jack right he cannot continue you can see the signal from Bari saying we're going to have to substitute aket unfortunately gak has been so strong in the back for France he cannot continue that will be missed [Applause] [Music] [Applause] pausing the play well diak receives [Applause] attention St on the field to assist and so we will have a substitution yeah this is gu Rivier he was uh one of the four players as well who were in London competed in Tokyo as well fun fact about about him he's got a degree in law he's a lawyer okay yeah he started playing blind football in 2004 20 years ago and he plays for Bondi cesy foots FC here in France stepping in 34 years of age he's a forward right so he'll be looking to be that super sub Off the Bench and on the score sheet oh waving to the crowd on his feet so even though we do have medical assist of implements out on the field I think he just wanted to let his countrymen and Country women know I'm still in the [Applause] fight yeah we certainly hope everything's okay with jait good to see he's on his feet though absolutely certainly hope it's nothing serious yes that's absolutely right just 27 seconds on the clock the energy is building the tension is building you are very very close everyone to a penalty shootout to decide who's going to win the gold medal of the cesi foot tournament here at the par Olympic Games what a competition this has been really well somehow fitting that after this amazing tournament that it's coming down to the final seconds free kick espano good attacking opportunity here for Argentina [Applause] [Music] [Music] Guido conani the guide [Applause] blocked eski coming away with it [Applause] [Music] foul called on Fernandez 11 seconds remain I believe de bruyne the referee was pointing at onon F because I believe he spoke of his players in the attacking third so outside of his permitted Zone yeah sometimes they bend the rules a little bit so it's it's it's it's very difficult sometimes for the officials to keep track of you know really what's going on the goenda in the defending third the coach in the middle third guide in the attacking [Music] third long way from goal for France with 11 seconds left asking for silence pass looking for fallier but the Hooter will sound and we are going to penalty kicks to decide the gold medal in blind football at the par Olympic Games in Paris 2024 six teams the last time they were in a penalty shootout they won right France in a in a decisive match that is right France in the final against turkey at the European championship in 2022 a win against uh the Turks Argentina in the semi-finals a win against Brazil so two goal scores viu and espil scoring 12 minutes into the match France broke the deadlock first with their captain and then a SPO equalized just a few seconds after so in the penalty shootout for Argentina the kickers were es Pino Mario Rios nelia the number three fan Padia Matias Oliva and osalo Fernandez the players who missed were Mario Rios his penalty kick was saved and Padia hit the post just to recap what went down on the previous round here are the statistics 11 shots for Argentina seven on frame six for France one on goal it went in 27 Corner kicks buddy and 18 fouls a physical game a back and forth game super physical game yeah 51% ball possession for Argentina 49 for France and in a penalty out so much pressure on both the taker and the keeper and in blind football pressure on the guide as well absolutely 100% And just to recap each team gets three penalty [Applause] kicks and if we're still level after three penalty kicks we're just going to keep going on until someone wins it as you said earlier Anthony in the semifinal and that penalty shootout between Brazil and Argentina went well beyond three kicks well beyond three kicks yeah Argentina had a total of 1 2 3 four five six kickers keepers of course cannot take penalty kicks we did manage to rotate all the way through all the Outfield players they would rotate and come back in the original order that they took and this moment is very very important right for the coaches for the assistant coaches for The guides the goalkeepers to talk to the players and really build up their confidence motivate them ahead of the shootout in this moment that football f around the world have become familiar with the athletes arms linked hit the Midfield stripe sudden death indeed the late great CT gouty used to say sudden Victory yep blue versus Los MOS [Music] as we saw against Brazil Max espo will be the first penalty kick taker for Argentina this time up against Alexandro penal taken from the six met do this a situation where absolute silence is required so we will be mindful of that ourselves as we're doing commentary warning the keeper [Music] [Music] Max [Music] espano he went dead center lucky for ESB Neil B muchi went to his left replay a powerful right footed finish down the middle [Applause] Aris key to take for France the guide a a scores arisi with a beauty yeah very well- taken penalty kick it had the power it had the placement there's no way Herman MCH could have stopped it 1-1 we're level once again right footed effort there from takim Mares one of the fan favorites and it is Rios it is Mario Rios the midfielder he was the second kicker against Brazil he is the second kicker against the French [Music] [Music] go for absolutely ripped it yeah he redeemed himself after missing the penalty against Brazil scores against [Applause] France very very decent effort from Mar oos here's the replay right foot on it as [Applause] well markon B on will be next to take ax a is it up up B on puts it away fantastic penalties off the crossbar and in and I bet you one thing Hans for a split second many many people in in the bleachers here thought that ball did not go in here's a replay using every millimeter 22 [Applause] n edia is stepping up to the dot he did score against Brazil can he score against [Applause] France so far the same order for Argentina as we saw on the semis do not see the field during regular play first touch it's a save balui denies an idia great save just Sensational from marui world class from the French goalkeeper Ed has been controlled by G coni Sensational reflexes great elasticity there from the French goalkeeper to get to it and who else could it be but the captain Frederick villero with an opportunity to win the gold medal for France [Music] fore ax ax the Golden Dream comes true for France belu wins it it is a golden night for the French my friend 12 years after losing the final in London they win the gold medal at home in Paris on their home turf before this phenomenal crowd who saw aqu is incredible he can't believe it made the save desolation for FAA what a game he had for Argentina but yes it is gold for Le blur in Paris and who else could it be but the captain absolutely top scorer and MVP of this competition the right footed finish into the corner there no chances whatsoever for Herman MCH great placement and the party will go long into the Parisian KN France have claimed the gold medal in blind football the first European nation to do so they started off their campaign with a 1-nil victory over China then a 3-0 loss to Brazil followed by a 2-n win over turkey in the semi-finals a late winner against Colombia and then in the gold medal match a victory in a penalty shoot out to beat Argentina Nel edia missed Vio would convert and France have the gold medal just incredible what a competition this has been for Argentina on their sixth Paro Olympic appearance they do have the uh fifth medal but once again it's not gold the third silver medal for Los Melos who have two bronze medals as well so yet another edition of the par Olympic games for Argentina without winning the final it's bronze for Brazil and here's the final Rank and France is indeed at the top of the table the gold medal winners Argentina with the silver Brazil claiming the bronze Colombia China Morocco turkia and Japan rounding out the field of eight in men's blind football at the par Olympic Games Paris 2024 and what a competition has this been right on absolutely incredible energy just great atmosphere all the way through right the uh sessie foot kicked off on on September 1st and the French fairy tale unfolds in the Paris night just magical just magical it's going to be quite the Saturday night in vah I can tell you that much no doubt about that VI areski and Von are the three players who converted their penalty kicks Espino and Rios did so for Argentina but n edia missed one of them look what scenes yeah look at this villero on the shoulders of his teammates the Talisman French Captain has had an unbelievable tournament and caps it in the most well you couldn't script it yeah yeah totally I mean MVP of the competition at home on home turf before the home fans top score of the competition with three goals alongside Noak from Brazil but one of those goals in the final and what a goal what a spectacular goal against Argentina who are a formidable side who have a who have a a strong defense it was the only goal that Argentina conceded in in the entire competition so France really really deserve quite the celebration tonight Dre billero was considering stopping competitive play but when the par Olympic games were awarded to Paris said no not yet going to give it another go want to play in my country and boy or his country men and Country women grateful for that absolutely I mean at 41 years of age for you to to be a standout player at this level it's not easy he was in London competed in Tokyo as well and now our gold medal winners celebrating as a unit and that unit is including the 9,000 plus fans here at Eiffel Tower Stadium Trier flag everywhere you look somber of course in the Argentinian huddle they gave absolutely everything to this tournament and to this match obviously opposite expression there from from the Argentine Dugout here are the Brazilians W bronze Team France acknowledging their supporters Argentina well it'll be [Applause] heartbreak but they did well to reach the final oh absolutely they did especially in being able to beat Brazil who were the favorites in the semis exactly that Brazil had won every single gold medal ever in blind football coming in to Paris 2024 this team Argentina d owned them but this team France prevailing in a penalty shootout to claim the gold medal on home soil what a story what a story what a narrative right I mean what a what what what just an incredible competition before the tournament the French could call themselves The European Champions and now they can call themselves paralympic Champions absolutely right beating this formidable you know Argentine side which is one of the the best teams around the globe exactly they won the World Championship three times they are the defending world champion so what France were able to do tonight really just something else in a penalty shootout in in dramatic fashion really yes we focus a lot on vuba what about the takes by areski and baron I mean what pressure and they both absolutely rifled their penalties as well so and the shade from from B muchi exactly that so you know denying the the PK goal there from from edia so the gold medalists are certainly celebrating as they should finally relax and enjoy after all the pressure of the tournament you know and what a rebound we talked about this over the course of the broadcast said what a way to rebound from Tokyo right Tokyo you know they they started off the competition in Tokyo with a 4il loss to Japan they finished dead last at the previous par Olympics and now they won it all now see the emotions understandable from Rios came in as a substitute during the match played really well there we can see memories being made for a lifetime here in the Eiffel Tower Stadium as their team Le have claimed the gold yeah second team in in group a beat Columbia in the semis to reach the final heartbreak for for Argentina you see that the Defenders spadia and an Delo I'm not sure for for Delo who's 36 but for Padia who's 45 years old it might be his last par Olympic Games the attacking players for Argentina get a lot of attention but I thought Padia had an absolutely sensational game for Argentina set up the goal with a fantastic pass yeah he was team of the tournament for two World Championships in 2014 2018 he was one of the best Defenders last year he was one of the best defenders you know it was a lot thanks to him that that that Argentina only conceded one goal and look at that sight the Eiffel Tower a glow in the background the par Olympic logo in the foreground the metal podium being assembled we will have the victory ceremony for you so stay with us for that Brazil Argentina and France from top or rather from bottom to [Applause] top once again the sounds of all sha and E being sung with Joy by the fans here the Eiffel Towers [Music] [Applause] Stadium just what a great energy really this is the place to be we have enjoyed every minute of it I know you have as well wherever you are around the world joining us what a sensational tournament ending in the most dramatic fashion possible you know in in France they had all the way through right they they started off their campaign with a with a win against China but it was a late winner against the Chinese and then there was that tough game against Brazil they lost 3-0 the fans are asking themselves you know we might we might meet Brazil in the final if if if we lost 3-0 now how are we going to win the final right and then they were able to beat turkey which put France in a more comfortable situation they faced Colombia in in the semis not Argentina like many would have thought since Columbia qualified in first Argentina and second and then you know I think the France certainly celebrated when Argentina knocked out Brazil cuz then the French thought hey we actually have a chance and guess what they certainly did they took full advantage of the moment and they will have the gold medals around their necks tonight in Paris in just a few moments ceremony underway the Eiffel Tower in all its Glory an absolute light show the flags away just an incredible atmosphere well inspiring another generation yeah good to see the younger Generations appreciating the blind football and and I said this over the course of the of the broadcast it really is a very special sport an inclusive sport I I think it really teaches us about important things in life sometimes things that we take for granted and there 64 Nations Affiliated to ibsa the international blind Sports Federation that number has only increased over the past few [Music] years and of course you know what we try to do year in year out is is bring more attention to blind football which you know can be just as exciting if not more exciting than in regular football I mean look at the final we had tonight it was incredible it was an amazing match from wherever you you watched us around the globe I mean you really enjoyed an absolute spectacle here in Paris I mean let know let alone this venue basically underneath the Eiffel Tower what more do you want exactly that fantastic sport incredible drama and just mindblowing skills of the athletes in blind football we know over the course of the tournament there have been a lot of new fans that have discovered this sport for the very first time and we know you'll be back for more when the par Olympic Games moved to Los Angeles in 2028 yeah and they're expected to be good with some new sports right that have been added to the mix be an excellent program but our focus is right here right now in Paris and this is a unique venue it is a temporary venue it was constructed for the Olympic Games for beach volleyball converted for blind football in the par Olympic Games will be dismantled as a venue after the par Olympic games are complete yeah over the next few days that's what I've been told by the uh by the logistics crew so this is a moment to kind of capture and treasure really because literally we may never experience something like this ever again yeah you're absolutely right but you said it all this this uh venue here started being constructed in March I believe it has a capacity for basically 10,000 Spectators but at times I mean especially tonight it seemed like they're more seemed like the entirety of France was here tonight seems like the amount of people here is more than than you know than 9 10,000 sure felt that way and all credit to those Spectators they played their part in this tournament they were respectful they were enthusiastic and the Frank supporter it's the best possible outcome totally I mean and the par Olympic Games themselves have just been phenomenal right we had over 500 athletes spread across over 20 Sports competing here in Paris which is already an international City but during a competition like this one it becomes even more International right we have cultures nationalities from all over the globe that are just pouring in here to really add to this already incredible City and you can just really feel it in the streets feel that energy yes you the people of imp Paris they embrace the Olympic Games and they have wrapped their arms enthusiastically around the par Olympic Games it has been top class so this is a nice wide angle here of the Eiffel Tower arena in just a few moments we will have the ceremony to award the first the bronze medal to Brazil then the silver medal to Argentina and the gold medal to hosts France winning the flying football tournament at the par Olympic Games for the very first time after losing the final in London 12 years ago finally the clinch gold see the photographers on the bottom of your screen positioning themselves to get the perfect angle there of the ceremony yeah I've got a pretty good idea of what's going to be on the front pages tomorrow in front yeah 100% buddy [Music] [Music] you [Music] go [Music] [Music] I'm just feel ction C [Music] [Music] yes [Music] [Music] [Music] expect out [Music] [Music] [Music] it nothing Pro [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] really you know the you know the G Master of the [Music] [Music] [Music] now [Music] [Music] [Music] that's what people say that's what people say [Music] [Music] all [Music] shake shake shake shake shake [Music] [Music] sh and that's what don't see that's what they don't see [Music] know I [Music] [Music] shake it I I shake it I shake it I I shake it [Music] shake shake shake [Applause] [Music] [Music] [Applause] sh sh I sh it I shake it I shake it sh it shake it [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] be for speee [Music] [Music] a [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] you [Music] [Music] ladies and gentlemen in a few instants the ceremony will be started but please we ask you to remain on your seat in a few insts the ceremony will begin fore spee fore [Music] [Music] [Music] Happ [Music] [Music] [Music] put [Music] [Music] [Music] feel [Music] [Music] got got [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] m [Music] feel [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] let [Music] [Music] to [Music] [Music] [Music] world [Music] everywh [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] great [Music] [Music] [Music] Mak [Music] [Music] make make [Music] [Music] [Music] that to [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] for take me take take [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Music] me [Music] [Music] I [Music] hallelujah hallelujah [Music] [Music] believe [Music] [Music] o [Applause] [Music] hallelujah hallelujah hallu [Applause] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] touch this can't touch [Music] this tou this [Music] got you [Music] [Music] [Music] break it down [Music] [Music] [Music] it's time for the victory ceremony in men's blind football the Paro Olympic Games Paris 2024 ladies and gentl victory cery for [Music] here are the Brazilians bronze medalists after beating Colombia in the third place game five matches played in Paris 2024 seven goals scored un conceded l in the semi-finals to Argentina and here they are Hans Al the welcoming Roar for the home team from France as they make their way towards the podium and Argentina are other Podium winners of blind football in Paris yeah Argentino with their third silver medal their fifth in the history of the Paro Olympic Games on their sixth [Applause] performance the Eiffel Tower in the background par Olympic logo it's a golden green comeing true from the people of France absolutely you see Brazil to the right Argentina on the left and then France in the middle meet the metal [Applause] presenters this is the mayor of Paris and he all [Applause] go she will be presenting the gold medal this ISS masas the international blind Sports Federation blind football chairperson Olympics [Applause] smsa Sports manager RSA president [Applause] R aile the executive director our metal [Music] [Applause] presenters our bronze medalists the athletes from Brazil there's the goalkeeper Luan Lera this is M the defender the first time winning a par Olympic medal that's kasu re Defender as well where's the number [Applause] five [Applause] Jonathan and that is the par Olympic p jeffu with his fifth par Olympic medal he's got four gold ones that's nonato three time par Olympic champ he scored the winner in Tokyo a wonder goal against Argentina this is Thiago panap competed in Tokyo as well there's hi cardino four time par Olympic champ three times the best line footballer in the world that's his fifth par Olympic [Applause] medal here's jel this is the backup goalkeeper Matos the Brazilians with their sixth straight par Olympic medal the first time though it's not gold what an outstanding record of Excellence the Brazilian men's blind football [Music] team receiving their paralympic games mascot G is a hot item you have to say it's maybe not as treasured as the medals but very nice to have this is a fun I find an interesting fact about the metal in the middle of the metal I believe there's a it's a small piece of the Eiffel Tower absolutely right that's correct right Hans so absolutely each and every one of the medalists gets to take home just a a piece of Paris absolutely and for the blind football athletes piece of Paris literally in the backyard of the stadium where their dreams were made Brazil bronze medal winners and men's blind [Applause] football another South American side on the podium as well in Los Morelos Argentina are our silver medal winners in blind football there's Dario lenina the backup goalkeeper 44 years of age his sixth par Olympic appearance there's the captain onel Delo on his fourth par Olympic competition there's nedia who missed the PK in the final this is ran pad the 45-year-old Defender just might be his last par Olympic appearance he's on his fourth competition that's Jesus meros the 21-year-old midfielder he's playing the par Olympic Games for the first time in his career this is Matias Oliva his first competition as well this is Moxy espo on his [Applause] third par Olympic Games second top score in Tokyo this is Oswaldo Fernandez he was arguably the star player for Argentina over the course of the competition there's Marios this is heran MCH that's the starting goalkeeper for Los Mel go with their fifth par Olympic medal in blind football the third silver medal what a final they gave us went down to penalty kicks the end France prevailed but Argentina gave us a splendid performance in that final match here qualified to the semi-finals as the second team in group b with Five Points two goal as draws with Colombia and Morocco in a 1-n win over Japan in the semi-finals beat Brazil in dramatic fashion a dramatic 43 victory over their Arch Rivals lost the penalty shootout in the gold medal game to the French they are the defending world champions important reminder [Music] Argentina our silver medal winners in men's blind football and [Music] now prepare yourself for a [Applause] [Music] roar this place is roaring right now as the mayor of Paris makes her way applauding like everybody in the arena there's Alexandro BCI 27y old goalkeeper he competed in Tokyo as well M Mig now Mikel migz he was in Tokyo his nickname is El Toro guier one of the four players who were in London 12 years ago 2012 one of the fan favorites you heard the reaction takim mareski scored one of the PKS this is Martin bahon also one of the penalty [Applause] scorers and now Khalifa y suffered an injury we can see his arm in a sling came off early in that gold medal match but he's here proudly accepting a gold medal and how about this guy now huh look at the reaction MVP top scorer of the [Applause] competition Jak competed at the world championship in Birmingham last year he was in as [Applause] well fa Mado his father Manuel was a guide for the French team and here's Beno chevro backup goalkeeper he competed in Birmingham the toast of France what a magnificent performance they gave us in that gold medal match it's really a celebration of the sport isn't it absolutely this is elas mastas from Greece the international wine Sports Federation [Music] chairperson the celebration of this very inclusive very special sport that deserves so much tension really brats started off their campaign with a win over China followed by a 3-n loss to Brazil and then a rebound win over turkey in these semifinals a dramatic win over Colombia and speaking of dramatic it came down to a penalty shootout versus Argentina a 32 Triumph to beat the South Americans and win their very first gold medal in cesi futs Ali Le a golden night for France France are our gold medal winners in men's blind football now a special moment ladies and gentlemen if you can please stand up for the National Anthem of France h oh [Music] if that doesn't get your heart racing I'm not sure what would my friend I have the Goosebumps right now what a way just to cap off the competition huh absolutely Splendid entertainment the best of Sport the best of humanity really manif absolute manif manif [Applause] [Applause] the party will continue well into the night in Paris France have claimed the gold medal in blind football Eiffel Tower sparkling in celebration in the background here is your Podium France with the gold medal Argentina with the silver medal Brazil with the bronze medal in men's blind football at the paral Olympic Games Paris 2024 and there they are the hosts they won it all here's second par olypic medal in blind [Music] football and slowly but surely the fans begin to exit the arena that was home first to the beach volleyball tournament during the Olympics and then home to the cesi F the blind football tournament for the par Olympic games that have been just extraordinary I mean what an amazing competition over 500 athletes spread across over 20 Sports and just everyone having a good time everyone's enjoying themselves yes history made history made in Paris every symbol of the country you could imagine enjoying a French Victory as the athletes make their way from the podium to continue the [Applause] celebration Argentina silver medalists disappointed of course that they were not at the top of the podium but they had a Fant fantastic tournament here are the gold medal winners from France acknowledging their supporters as they leave the field of play All Smiles in celebrations across Paris tonight as France win gold they win it all [Applause] and our bronze medal winners from [Applause] Brazil what Splendid skills and entertainment they gave us throughout the entire tournament yeah you saw their Fabi vasconcelos the Brazilian head coach second medal for France fifth for Argentina and the sixth medal for Brazilian BL football there's tuon aqu a legend now more than ever yeah in sassy foot what a huge accomplishment we're not ranked as high as the other teams on the podium but when the tournament was played it was France finished at the very top you saw Antonio figeroa there're the Argentine head coach who of course must be congratulated [Music] special moments for every Athlete on the podium moments to remember [Music] [Music] [Applause] another [Applause] [Applause] [Music] French Captain Freddy villero sending the Parisian Knight into ecstasy France the gold medal winners Argentina the silver medal Brazil with the bronze Anthony final thoughts my friend what a competition this has been huh what amazing energy with just an incredible atmosphere in and around with the Eiffel Tower Arena where we had this spectacular tournament it was a pleasure of being alongside you buddy we thank you for joining us we know you've enjoyed it so long from Paris take care time [Music] [Music] [Music] [Music] [Applause] here you