Henry is a nationwide hero for his enjoying exploits, having helped France win the 1998 World Cup on dwelling soil earlier than occurring to turn out to be their all-time document goalscorer.
Main Les Bleus to a primary Olympic gold in 40 years would have additional immortalised the 46-year-old amongst his compatriots.
In entrance of a passionate 48,000 crowd on the Parc des Princes, France made an encouraging begin when Enzo Millot’s shot squirmed by way of weak fingers from Spain keeper Arnau Tenas.
However Spain’s attacking high quality rapidly clicked into gear to stun the host nation.
Inside seven minutes, that they had equalised when Barcelona’s 21-year-old Fermin Lopez completed off an incisive transfer with a first-time shot which he scuffed however spun into the underside nook.
Spain have been slick, sharp and obtained their rewards once more to take the lead.
Fermin notched his second when he was extra alert than the French defenders, playing when Guillaume Restes went to collect a left-wing cross after which pouncing when it didn’t persist with the French keeper’s gloves.
When Alex Baena casually and exactly clipped in a free-kick for the third, it appeared ominous for France.
Nonetheless, Henry’s aspect rallied in dramatic vogue and retained perception with their stirring second-half show.
The evolving feelings of the house crowd – from pleasure by way of pleasure, despair, and anger – had turned to hope.
France pulled a objective again when Maghnes Akliouche diverted in Michael Olise’s inswinging free-kick, persevering with the surge of momentum and confidence.
With time operating out, although, extra drama produced a gripping finale.
A melee within the field led to referee Ramon Abatti being informed to go to the pitchside monitor and, after a second of theatrical stress, pointed to the penalty spot with Benat Turrientes deemed to have been holding France substitute Arnaud Kalimuendo.
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta held his nerve to transform with a composed end in stoppage time, sparking extra wild celebrations among the many dwelling followers who collectively caught their breath earlier than additional time began.
Spain, although, appeared they nonetheless had the potential to carve open France with their slick passing – and that is what occurred as Camello turned an unbelievable sport again of their favour together with his double strike.
“There have been a couple of minutes in the course of the first half through which we disappeared,” added Henry. “And we paid a excessive value for that.”