Di Maria’s stunner gives Argentina gold in Beijing; Brazil collect Olympic bronze by beating Belgium

Nigeria 0 - Argentina 1 (Olympics final, August 23, 2008) The first half was a stale affair (highlights here). After the break Messi slipped a pass to Angel Di Maria who broke clear on the halfway line and beat Vanzekin with an exquisite chipped finish. After that Nigeria had their fair share of chances, but were unable to beat goalkeeper Sergio Romero, leaving Argentina to celebrate retaining their gold medals.

Belgium 0 - Brazil 3 (Olympics third-place playoff, August 22, 2008) Dunga was looking to save some of his credibility by beating Belgium, and the Samba boys moved ahead with a free-flowing move just before the half hour mark, Jo played in Rafinha down the right hand side, and the full-back’s cross was turned home by Diego. Belgium reacted well having chances to equalise, but Brazil netted a killer second on the stroke on half-time, Jo nodded home a loose ball after an initial shot was parried. (First half highlights here.) At the death Manchester City’s Jo bagged his second of the game, picking up the ball just inside the Belgium half, racing towards goal and firing home the third.