Tokyo 2020: Brazil reach men’s football final

The world’s most celebrated football team and defending champion, Brazil lived up to its reputation in the Tokyo Olympics.

Brazil booked a place in the final by beating Mexico 4-1 on penalties in Kashima.

Richarlison hit the post for Brazil in the 82nd minute, but neither team could find a goal inside 120 minutes.

Brazil dominated the match with a 67% advantage in possession but failed to beat the ex-Malaga goalkeeper, Guillermo Ochoa.

The scoring drought continued through two, 15-minute periods of extra time.

The penalty shoot-out

Veteran right back Dani Alves converted Brazil’s first attempt of the penalty session with a shot into the bottom left corner.

Next, Brazil keeper Santos saved striker Eduardo Aguirre’s first attempt for Mexico.

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli made it 2-0 for Brazil while Mexico defender Johan Vasquez hit the post on the next attempt.

Mid-fielder Bruno Guimaraes converted Brazil’s third attempt for a 3-0 advantage in the shootout.

Midfielder Carlos Rodriguez converted the next shot for Mexico.

However, Reinier’s right-footed shot into the bottom right corner sealed the victory for Brazil.

Spain overcome Japan

In the second semi-final, Spain beat Japan in extra-time to reach their Olympic football final since 2000.

Spain and Japan played out a drab draw in the first 90 minutes at the Miyagi Stadium.

However, in the second period of extra-time, Marco Asensio who entered the game as an 83rd minute substitute scored the winner.

Spain last won the Olympic gold medal in men’s soccer at the 1992 Summer Games.

Spain will face Brazil in the final at the International Yokohama Stadium.