BEIJING // Argentina retained the Olympic gold medal in football by beating Nigeria 1-0 with a stunning goal from Angel Di Maria. Di Maria, guilty of a remarkable double penalty-miss in a group game against Serbia, broke clear of the Nigeria defence and clipped the ball over Ambruse Vanzekin in the 58th minute. Wilting in the searing heat, the Argentines then survived a torrid half-hour of Nigerian pressure to cling on for victory.
The midday showdown at the Bird's Nest stadium was a repeat of the 1996 final, which Nigeria won 3-2 to become the first African team to win the tournament. Brazil took the bronze medal, overcoming Belgium 3-0 in Shanghai yesterday. *Reuters
