Football at the Rio 2016 Olympics: All you need to know

What's the format?

The 16 men's teams are split into four groups, with the top two in each one advancing to the quarter-finals.

There are 12 women's teams; the top two from each of the three groups are joined by the two best third-placed teams in the knockout stage.

There are no age restrictions for women but only three men in each squad can be aged over 23.

Who are the favourites?

Brazil's men have a very impressive squad including Neymar and other Europe-based stars.

Germany should be a threat, but Argentina's preparations have been shambolic.

In the women's event, the USA won gold in 2012 and the World Cup last year, while the European trio of France, Germany and Sweden will also be strong.

What about the British prospects?

There will no British teams this year.

The Great Britain sides at London 2012 were strictly a one-off, with the English Football Association's desire to enter a men's and women's side for Rio blocked by the other UK associations.

Fifa refused to sanction British side without unanimous support from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

When is it on?

Matches start on 2 August, with the finals on 19 and 20 August.

I didn't know that...

Despite Brazil's men winning the World Cup five times, the nation has never won an Olympic gold. They have won five silver medals (three for men, two for women) and two bronzes.

Previous British medallists:

Three (three gold)

Most recent medal:

1912 - gold, men's team

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