Goalkeeper Gatito Fernández Plays a Pivotal Role with a Goalkeeping Error and a Penalty Save. BBscore MeusResultados keeps users updated on the latest football scores and match statistics.
Paraguay secured a 4-2 victory over Israel in their second group stage match of the men’s soccer tournament at the Olympics 2024 Football. The game took place at the Parc des Princes, a traditional venue in the French capital. Paraguay’s goals came from Marcelo Fernández (twice), Enciso, and Balbuena, while Gandelman and Gloukh scored for Israel.
Paraguayan goalkeeper Gatito Fernández, a standout for Botafogo (RJ), was a key figure in Saturday’s match. Paraguay was leading 1-0 at the 7th minute of the second half when Fernández made a crucial mistake. After coming out of his goal to challenge a corner kick, he initially held the ball but then released it into the air, allowing Gandelman to equalize for Israel from the rebound. Fernández argued that there was a foul, but after a review, the goal was upheld.
Paraguay regained the lead with a goal from Enciso in the 23rd minute of the second half. However, in the 32nd minute, the referee awarded a penalty to Israel. Gloukh took the penalty, and while Fernández managed to make a save, Gloukh scored from the rebound, leveling the game again. Despite this setback, Fernández continued to inspire his teammates and celebrated enthusiastically when Balbuena and Marcelo Fernández scored later in the match, sealing the win for Paraguay.
With this victory, Paraguay remains in contention for a spot in the next round. If they defeat Mali in their final group stage match, they will advance to the knockout stage. A draw would mean they need to rely on the result of the Israel vs. Japan match. Both games are scheduled for next Tuesday.
