Spain advances to semi-finals with a 3-0 victory over Japan. © Twitter (@brfootball)
Spain showcased their quality and determination with a commanding 3-0 victory over Japan in the quarter-finals of the Paris 2024 Olympic football tournament. This win propels Spain into the semi-finals, where they will face Morocco, following Morocco’s dominant performance against the USA.
The clash between Spain and Japan promised to be a thrilling encounter, with Spain entering as one of the tournament favorites and Japan boasting an impressive unbeaten record from the group stages. Despite Japan’s formidable defense and attacking prowess, Spain proved too strong on the day.
The match resumed after the break, with Japan making a tactical change. Shota Fujio replaced Yamada, signaling Japan’s intent to push for a breakthrough. Spain, however, maintained their formation and dominance from the first half.
Early in the second half, Japan’s goalkeeper, Kokubo, made a crucial save by tipping a powerful shot from Spain’s Lopez over the bar. His quick reflexes kept Japan in the game, but Spain’s relentless pressure continued. Spain had another chance when Baena shot wide after a neat setup by Lopez. Spain’s attacking play was creating constant threats, keeping Japan’s defense on high alert.
Spain’s Oroz fired a shot over the bar as the Spanish team sought to consolidate their lead. Despite the miss, Spain’s control over the match was evident. Japan tried to regroup and push forward, with Mito’s deflected shot being comfortably saved by Spain’s Tenas. Japan’s attempts to break through were met with solid defensive work from Spain.
Japan made another substitution, bringing on Kein Sato for Koki Saito, hoping to inject fresh energy into their attack. However, Spain’s defense remained resolute. Spain also made changes, bringing on Adrian Bernabe for Alex Baena, aimed at refreshing the squad and preparing for the potential semi-final against Morocco.
Japan’s goalkeeper well dealt with a free-kick for Spain, but Spain’s dominance was evident as they continued to press for more goals. Spain doubled their lead with Lopez scoring a brilliant goal to make it 2-0. His strike showcased his skill and composure under pressure, further solidifying Spain’s position in the semi-finals.
In the final stages, Tenas made a fantastic save to deny Hosoya, who had broken free and looked set to score. Tenas’s intervention was crucial in maintaining Spain’s clean sheet. With the match in their control, Spain made further changes, with Lopez and Oroz going off for Diego Lopez and Benat Turrientes, respectively.
Spain’s third goal came in a chaotic corner situation when Ruiz scored. Despite Japan’s efforts to clear the ball, Ruiz’s persistence ensured the ball ended up in the net, making it 3-0. Japan had a final chance with a header from Takai hitting the crossbar, but despite their best efforts, they could not find a way past Spain’s defense.
The final whistle confirmed Spain’s 3-0 victory, securing their place in the semi-finals. This win was a testament to Spain’s quality and resilience as a team. With clinical finishing, solid defense, and critical performances from their star players, Spain has shown they are serious contenders for the Olympic gold. As they prepare for their semi-final against Morocco, Spain will be buoyed by their impressive showing and the confidence of a team that is in peak form.
