Ole, Ole, Ole!!

     Mexico vs. Japan doesn't strike football (sorry, soccer) enthusiasts as a highly promising fixture, but this is the Olympics and this was a semi-final match to determine who would play for the Gold Medal.  Besides, Mexico has often been knocked out of the World Cup by the off and on American team that it was good to have an opportunity to root our neighbors on.  The cheers were not wasted as Mexico emerged with a well-played 3-1 victory, with the third goal coming in the closing seconds.  Mexico then went on to defeat highly-favored Brazil to claim the Gold.  It would be a true grouch to deny them the happiness of the moment.
      And yet, something was amiss.  Where was Germany?  Where was Spain?  France? England? Argentina?  And where were Messi, Renaldo and Rooney?  The eight teams qualifying for the Olympics included Senegal, Egypt and Honduras, hardly world powerhouses.  The game itself was one of the cleanest games you will ever see played in World football.  Only two yellow cards were shown and tackles were few, certainly not the crunching ones one normally sees even in the so-called "friendlies."
     Clearly football in the Olympics that we see in the World Cup or European Cup.  FIFA, the ruling body of football, keeps tight rein on the sport.  It is unlikely the best teams will ever appear in the Olympics.  FIFA has its own World Cup, which occurs in the even years between Olympic years (e.g. 2014).  During Olympic years, the Euro Cup is considered much more important.  Added to those factors, the professional teams in Europe are beginning the season and do not want their best players to risk injury in the Olympics.
      In all, good for Mexico.  Wear your medals with pride.

Japan on the attack in the game against Mexico

Mexico mid-fielder prepares to head the ball back