France and Spain set for Olympic men's football final after dramatic semi-final wins

Mahmoud Saber put Egypt ahead in the 62nd minute and French frustrations grew as they hit the frame of the goal three times before Mateta brought them level in the 83rd minute to force extra-time.

Egypt were almost immediately reduced to 10 men as Omar Fayed committed a second bookable offence, and Mateta soon capitalised to head France in front before Michael Olise swept home a third in the 108th minute.

France coach Thierry Henry was a happy man after the result as he urged his players to go for gold.

"The game's not over yet! Now it's time to go for the gold medal. As far as tonight's match is concerned, Egypt are an exceptional team and we had a lot of chances. It was a fantastic match. We've got one extra day to recover before facing a tough opponent in Spain. They're a nation that wins everything, whether in the junior or women's categories, but we're going there to win the gold medal."

Spain also had to come from behind as they booked a place in Friday's final with a 2-1 win over Morocco.

Tournament top scorer Soufiane Rahimi put Morocco ahead from the penalty spot late in the first half but Fermin Lopez levelled in the 65th minute after latching on to a loose ball.

Lopez then turned provider as substitute Juanlu Sanchez scored the winner with five minutes to go.

"The moment passed so fast that I didn't even realise it, but then when you realised that you scored the goal that puts your team in the final, I'm really happy," Sanchez said.

Spain captain Abel Ruis said: "It was unbelievable. Morocco played very well, with their fans [behind them]. We knew that the majority of the fans were supporting Morocco, but we had to focus on what we do on the pitch. That's what we did, and that's why we're in the final."

Egypt and Morocco will play for bronze on Thursday, with the medal certain to be heading to Africa.

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