One France player didn’t get an Olympic medal after brutal Thierry Henry decision

Thierry Henry’s France Silver Medal Winners – But One Player Missed Out Due to a Little-Known FIFA Rule

France’s Olympic football team, led by Thierry Henry, took home the silver medal at the 2024 Olympics, but one player, Theo de Percin, did not receive a medal despite being part of the squad. The 23-year-old goalkeeper, who plays for Auxerre, was named as a standby player, but did not make an appearance during the tournament.

De Percin was part of the team’s 20-man squad, but did not play a single minute of football or take part in any of the training sessions. He was not even on the substitutes’ bench during the matches, leaving many wondering why he did not receive a medal alongside his teammates.

The reason lies in a little-known FIFA rule. Article 30.1 of the Olympic Football Tournament regulation states that a standby player can only receive a medal if they appear on the start list and their team finishes first, second, or third in the tournament. De Percin did not meet these criteria, which meant he did not receive a medal.

The Other Alternates Who Did Get Medals

Monaco’s Chrislain Matsima, Lens’ Andy Diouf, and Johann Lepenant of Lyon all featured in the final group stage game against New Zealand after France secured top spot. Obed Nkambadio and Guillaume Restes were France’s keepers for the tournament, leaving De Percin out in the cold.

Interestingly, Spain, who won the gold medal, gave out all 22 medals to their players, including third-choice goalkeeper Alejandro Iturbe, who got his hands on one.

Thierry Henry’s France – Silver Medalists

France’s team under Thierry Henry showed immense talent and skill throughout the tournament, ultimately finishing second behind Spain. They reached the final after defeating Egypt in the semi-finals, but lost to Spain in a thrilling match that went to extra time.

What do you think about this little-known FIFA rule? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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