Soccer’s uniqueness and brilliance come from its worldwide reach and following. The most popular sport in the world has witnessed several competitions arise over the years to determine the best on the planet. While the FIFA World Cup remains the pinnacle of the game, the legacy of the Olympics cannot be understated about soccer.
The timing of the Summer Olympics often sees the global event follow the hefty annual soccer calendar and international tournaments. Consequently, federations and clubs hesitate to release the players for the Olympics, giving youngsters the chance to represent their respective nations. Several countries, including some surprising names, have held the prestige of holding gold medals for their soccer displays at the Olympics.
The most successful soccer nations at the Summer Olympics
Over the years, 41 countries have reached at least the semi-final stage in the Summer Olympics. As far as men’s soccer is concerned, Great Britain and Hungary hold the record for being the most successful sides in the competition with three gold medals each. Hungary’s inclusion might surprise some because of the underwhelming results in other international tournaments.
The three gold medals of Hungary came way back during the 1950s and ’60s. The legendary figure of Ferenc Puskas was a part of the triumphant side in 1952. Apart from the gold, the European nation has also won a silver and bronze medal each, taking them above Great Britain. Brazil is a two-time reigning soccer champion of the Summer Olympics, having raised the gold in 2016 and 2021.
A look at soccer in the 2024 Olympics in Paris
Thousands of athletes from all corners of the globe are competing in Paris in various sports for glory. Soccer, as always, has attracted plenty of eyes with numerous stars taking part in the showpiece event. Unsurprisingly, much of the scrutiny is on France, with Les Bleus expected to thrive on home soil. Even without the big-name stars, France’s squad is filled with talent and is coached by the icon, Thierry Henry.
The competing nations are divided into four groups of four with the top two advancing to the quarter-finals. Theirry Henry’s France has already secured qualification with two wins from two and a healthy goal difference of four. Michael Olise is the highest-rated player in the event so far and has provided two assists in addition to a goal scored. The likes of Argentina and Spain will prove to be an obstacle in France’s road to the gold medal.