TOKYO, Japan – A late rally from Mexico fell just short as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Japan in Group A at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on Sunday at Saitama Stadium 2002 in Saitama.
Despite the loss, Mexico remain in second place in the group with one match remaining in the group stage.
Japan enjoyed a very strong start and with only 11 minutes into the match, the host nation held a 2-0 lead.
Japan struck for their first goal in the 6’ thanks to a surging run from Takefusa Kubo who connected with a cross from the right flank and finished past Mexico GK Guillermo Ochoa for a 1-0 lead.
Five minutes later in the 11’ the home side doubled their advantage after Mexico was whistled for a foul in their own area and Ritsu Doan coolly converted the spot kick for a 2-0 Japan lead.
Mexico looked to respond and had chances through Henry Martin in the 17’ and Sebastian Cordoba in the 44’, but were unable to break through.
Things got even more difficult for Mexico in the 68’ when a red card was issued for Johan Vasquez in the 68’, but Roberto Alvarado restored hope in the 85’ when he swung in a free kick that snuck into goal, making it just a 2-1 affair.
However, Mexico were unable to find a second in the waning minutes and will now turn their attention to Wednesday’s group stage finale versus South Africa.
