Korea Beats Mexico in Soccer, Kneels Before Brazil's Wall

Lost 1-4 in Penalty Shootout

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

Mexico, who defeated the national soccer team 6-3, could not overcome Brazil's wall. On the afternoon of the 3rd, at Kashima Stadium in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, they lost in a penalty shootout in the men's soccer semifinals of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. They will compete for the bronze medal against the team that lost in the semifinals between Japan and Spain. Meanwhile, Brazil is just one win away from achieving back-to-back Olympic golds following the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games.

Brazil dominated the attack throughout but failed to score. In the 14th minute of the first half, strong shots by Guilherme Arana and in the 23rd minute by Dani Alves were both stopped by goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. Mexico had a counterattack opportunity in the 42nd minute of the first half when Luis Romo made a quick run and took a right-footed shot, but it was to no avail.

At the start of the second half, Mexico introduced Carlos Rodriguez to change their tactics. However, Brazil's attacks continued, and in the 36th minute of the second half, they faced a scoring threat. Dani Alves' cross was sharply headed by Richarlison. The shot hit the goalpost, and the subsequent cross also passed over Martinelli's head.

With no winner after extra time, the two teams proceeded to a penalty shootout. Brazil's Alves and Heini?r easily found the net. On the other hand, Mexico's Eduardo Aguirre and Johan V?zquez had their shots saved, resulting in a 1-4 loss.