The 2024 Paris Olympics are nearing their conclusion, but Friday's schedule remains packed with key events as the Games draw to a close.
Team USA's women's basketball team is set to continue their impressive Olympic run with a crucial semifinal matchup against Australia. A win would secure their spot in the gold medal game, mirroring the achievement of the men's basketball team.
In men's soccer, the final showdown will feature an all-European clash between France and Spain. The day will also see the distribution of several track and field medals, including in the men's and women's 4x100 meter relays.
U.S. Women's Basketball vs. Australia (11:30 a.m. ET, USA Network)
The U.S. women's basketball team, currently riding a remarkable 59-game Olympic winning streak, will face Australia on Friday in their semifinal match. Victory would see them advance to the gold medal game on Sunday, where they would meet either France or Belgium.
Team USA dominated Nigeria on Wednesday, with A'ja Wilson scoring 20 points to lead the team to a 14-point victory. Australia's team, the Opals, secured their semifinal spot after defeating Serbia in the quarterfinals, marking their third consecutive win following an opening loss to Nigeria. However, they have never beaten Team USA in their previous 20 encounters.
The semifinal game between the United States and Australia is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. ET, with France and Belgium set to follow at 3 p.m.
France vs. Spain Men’s Soccer Final (11 a.m. ET, Peacock)
After thrilling comeback victories, France and Spain will compete for the gold medal in the men’s soccer final on Friday.
France advanced by defeating Egypt 3-1, with two goals scored in extra time during Monday night's semifinal. Spain earned their spot in the final by overcoming Morocco 2-1 with two second-half goals. This marks Spain's second consecutive appearance in the gold medal game, having lost to Brazil in the Tokyo Olympics. France, on the other hand, returns to the gold medal match for the first time since winning in Los Angeles in 1984.
Track and Field Finals (Starting at 1:30 p.m. ET, NBC)
Several track and field finals are scheduled for Friday, promising more Olympic drama. The U.S. men's 4x100 meter relay team will compete for gold at 1:45 p.m. ET, though they will be without star sprinter Noah Lyles, who tested positive for COVID-19 after his bronze medal in the 200-meter final.
The U.S. women's 4x100 meter relay team also reached the finals, propelled by Sha'Carri Richardson's strong performance in the qualifying round. Additionally, Alexis Holmes will compete in the women's 400-meter final at 2 p.m., and Rai Benjamin is slated for the men's 400-meter hurdles final, which will conclude the evening at 3:45 p.m. ET. Other notable events include the women's shot put final, the men's triple jump final, and the women's 10,000-meter final, all set for Friday afternoon in Paris.
