Spain vs Japan Football Update

Japan vs Spain Football 2012 London Olympic Game

 JAPAN STUNS WORLD CHAMPIONS SPAIN 1-0

 Yuki Otsu goal highlight. video replay here

(AP) GLASGOW, Scotland - Yuki Otsu scored in the first half of Japan's shocking 1-0 win over 10-man Spain in men's Olympic football Thursday, a victory that threatened the Spaniards' chances of winning a gold medal.

Otsu broke away from his marker during a corner in the 34th minute and the ball landed at his feet for a simple tap-in past goalkeeper David de Gea.

Spain's under-23 team wants to win Olympic gold to add to the World Cup and European Championship titles held by the country's full national team.

But Japan forward Kensuke Nagai caused major problems for Spain, slipping behind defenders with quick runs.

Spain center back Inigo Martinez was sent off for a foul while trying to stop Nagai from scoring. After that, Japan controlled the tempo and could have scored at least five more.

AZKALS Update

Phil Younghusband secures Golden Boot

By: Cedelf P. Tupas
Philippine Daily Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines – It took 16 hours for the Philippine Azkals to get back to Manila from Katmandu.

Through it all, striker Phil Younghusband cradled and kept a close eye on his most prized possession to date: The Golden Boot award in the AFC Challenge Cup.

“It’s my first award at the senior level, so its really important to me,” said Younghusband, a former reserve at English Premiere League club Chelsea who now plays for Loyola Meralco in the United Football League. <<read full story>>