Spain clinched the gold medal in the Olympic men's football tournament as Sergio Camello, coming off the bench, netted twice in extra time to secure a thrilling 5-3 victory against host nation France in a heart-stopping final at Parc des Princes on Friday.
The match was evenly poised at 3-3 by the end of regular play, but Camello struck 10 minutes into the additional period and again at the conclusion to deliver Spain their first Olympic men's football gold since 1992, when they triumphed on home turf.
France staged a remarkable resurgence after falling 3-1 behind, forcing the game into extra time. Maghnes Akliouche reduced the deficit in the 79th minute, and a VAR decision led to a penalty for the hosts, which Jean-Philippe Mateta converted in added time.
Spain surged ahead in the first half, responding to Enzo Millot's opening goal for France in the 12th minute with three quick goals within 10 minutes, courtesy of Fermin Lopez's brace and a masterful free-kick from Alex Baena.
Spain's coach, Santi Denia, expressed his joy for the players' achievement, calling it a beautiful moment. He praised the high caliber of the French team and the style of play Spain exhibited.
France's Millot had initially capitalized on a defensive error by Spanish keeper Arnau Tenas to score, but Spain quickly leveled through Lopez's composed finish. Lopez then put Spain ahead with his second goal, and Baena's exquisite free-kick extended the lead.
France narrowed the gap to 3-2 through Akliouche's close-range effort from a set piece. The drama intensified as a VAR review led to a penalty for France, which Mateta converted, leveling the score and igniting the French crowd.
Spain's Turrientes struck the bar with a powerful shot before the end of regular time. In extra time, despite Spain having substituted Lopez and Baena, France pressed for a decisive goal. However, it was Camello who stole the show, scoring twice to secure the victory.
Baena commended Camello's hard work and his pivotal role in the match, while expressing his joy at making history with Spain, having also won the European Championship last month.
