Olympic Games Soccer Scores

Pre-tournament favourites Argentina and Brazil kicked off their Olympic Games campaigns with narrow victories over the Ivory Coast and Belgium.

Argentina Beat Ivory Coast In Olympics

Argentina proved superior to the Ivory Coast for the majority of their encounter, and were well worth their narrow 2-1 victory. The Argentines, led by Sergio Batista, began the stronger of the two sides, but struggled to take advantage of their superiority.

Meanwhile, the Ivory Coast looked dangerous, especially when moving forward down the flanks, and threatened Argentina goalkeeper Oscar Ustari on several opportunities. Argentina dominated proceedings in the midfield, with the good work of Juan Roman Riquelme (Boca Juniors), Sergio Aguero (Atletico Madrid), Javier Mascherano (Liverpool) and Lionel Messi (Barcelona).

Los Albicelestes had to wait until the end of the first half to go ahead, through Lionel Messi, who met an enticing through ball from Juan Roman Riquelme. It was a brilliant finish by the gifted Barcelona striker.

After the break the Africans came more into the match, and they leveled the score through Cisse, who met a precise cross with an outstanding header that looped over Argentina goalkeeper Oscar Ustari.

However, the Argentines went on to win the match 2-1 with a goal from substitute Lautaro Acosta four minutes from full time. The Sevilla striker pounced on a rebound at the back post to give the highly fancied Argentines a vital victory.

A late strike from Sao Paulo midfielder Hernanes was the difference as Brazil edged Belgium 1-0 in their opening Oympic Games encounter.

Brazil Defeat Belgium In Olympics

The Brazilians, who have never won the Olympic Gold Medal before, completely dominated their opponents in a match that lacked excitement of the highest order.

Carlos Dunga's side rarely threatened the Belgium goal, but it was their persistence that ended up winning them the three points, that will go a long way in ensuring them passage into the quarterfinals of the Olympic competition.

Brazil looked dangerous at times, particularly through AC Milan youngster Alexandre Pato and Sao Paulo midfielder Hernanes, but the likes of Ronaldinho and Diego made little impact on the match.

The Selecao picked up a valuable victory against a Belgium side, who were reduced to nine men late on in the match.

Olympic Games Soccer: Brazil-New Zealand, Argentina-Australia

On the 10th of August Argentina and Brazil will play their second match of the tournament against Oceania opponents.

Argentina will be up against Australia (who drew 1-1 with Serbia) and Brazil will clash with New Zealand (the All Whites held hosts China to a 1-1 draw).

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