Japan began their campaign at the Tokyo Olympics with a win as Takefusa Kubo scored the only goal of the day for them against South Africa
Ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, one player who was being avidly awaited to be seen in action was the home side’s Takefusa Kubo. Touted as one of the finest names in the world of Japanese football, Real Madrid player was envisaged to achieve great things for the Japan U23 side.
And he ended up proving his mettle in the country’s opener itself. Japan who took on South Africa in their first football match of the Tokyo Olympics on Thursday saw starlet Kobe score a sterling goal, one which sealed an opening win for the home side.
With scores level at 0-0 after the end of the first half, it became clear that only a wonder effort would break the deadlock on the day. Both the team’s were extremely gallant and plucky at the back, bolstering their defensive modus operandi to allow nothing to go through.
Japan vs South Africa Tokyo Olympics Live: Takefusa Kubo Scores Luscious Goal To Seal A 1-0 Win For The Hosts
It was a moment of brilliance from Kubo in the 70th minute which ended up giving Japan the win. Cutting back towards the goal as he sauntered his way into the box, Kobe unleased a ferocious left footed strike, one which nestled into the far corner.
It was an exceptional effort, one hailed by his current club employers, Real Madrid as well. The goal was the only goal of the contest as Japan held onto their lead for the next 20 minutes to earn a hard fought 1-0 win on the night.
#Tokyo2020 Y apareció Kubo pic.twitter.com/o2SXPwEnZz
— Juan A. Lopesino (@lopesinoJA) July 22, 2021
Takefusa Kubo who is envisioned to go on loan to Real Sociedad in the La Liga will be striving to keep his run going at the games. Despite his innate talent being clearly evident, he’s struggled to impress at the loan spells he’s been on till now in Spain to see him fail to make the cut at Real Madrid.
The Tokyo Olympics will meanwhile be officially thrown open tomorrow when the opening ceremony gets underway on 23rd July.
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