In a gripping encounter showcasing the dramatic highs and lows of Olympic football, Spain secured their place in the semi-finals with a 3-0 victory over Japan. Two sensational goals from Fermín López and a late strike from Abel Ruiz ensured Spain’s progression to the next round, setting up an intriguing clash against Morocco. Here’s a detailed look at how the match unfolded.
Early Drama and López’s Opening Strike
The match began with an electric pace as both teams vied for early dominance. Spain, recovering from their previous defeat to Egypt, struck first after just ten minutes. Barcelona’s Fermín López showcased his attacking prowess by collecting a loose ball 25 yards from goal. In a moment of brilliance, López turned sharply and unleashed a powerful shot that beat Japanese goalkeeper Leo Kokubo, despite Kokubo’s valiant effort to make the save. This early goal was a testament to López’s skill and set the tone for the rest of the match.
Japan’s Near Misses and VAR Drama
Despite falling behind, Japan showed resilience and nearly equalized just before halftime. Mao Hosoya, with his back to the goal, managed to turn and fire a shot that beat Spain’s Arnau Tenas. However, a VAR review revealed that Hosoya was marginally offside when the ball was played, nullifying what would have been a crucial equalizer. The disappointment didn’t end there for Japan, as Hosoya’s header shortly before halftime struck the inside of the post and bounced clear, adding to their woes.
Spain’s Control and López’s Second Stunner
The break allowed Spain to regroup and come out with renewed intensity. Álex Baena had a golden opportunity to extend Spain’s lead, but his effort was disappointingly wide. Despite their efforts, Japan struggled to create clear-cut chances and was eventually punished by another piece of López magic. With 15 minutes remaining, López scored his second stunning goal of the match. From a corner taken by Sergio Gómez, López controlled the ball expertly before delivering a spectacular volley that left Kokubo helpless. This goal highlighted López’s exceptional talent and proved to be a decisive moment in the match.
Abel Ruiz Seals the Victory
As the match drew close, Spain put the game beyond Japan’s reach with a third goal. Abel Ruiz capitalized on a loose ball in the box, finishing decisively to make it 3-0. Japan’s Kota Takai came close to a consolation goal with a late header that struck the bar, but ultimately, it was not to be their night.
Looking Ahead: Spain vs. Morocco
Spain’s victory means they will face Morocco in the semi-finals, adding another chapter to their impressive international campaign. With a European Championship title already under their belt, Spain will be eager to add Olympic glory to their collection. On the other hand, Japan’s quest for an Olympic medal continues, having shown moments of promise despite the defeat.
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