Japan knocks out Brazil in last-gasp thriller, Colombia tames New Zealand

Japan had to wait until the final moments of their match against Brazil to kick off their Olympic campaign. After losing their opening match to European champions Spain (1-2), the Land of the Rising Sun took their first points after stoppage time. However, it seemed to get off to a bad start, as Jennifer opened the scoring (0-1, 56). against the run of play and Mina Tanaka missed a penalty before the break (45+2).

But with pressure, the Japanese managed to break Brazil at the end of the match. Saki Kumagai successfully converted the second penalty (1-1, 90+1'). Then Momoko Tanikawa scored one of the most beautiful goals of the tournament, a shot from 30 meters for the first goal that found its way into Oriverde's goal (2-1, 90+6'). This gem allows the Japanese to finish second in Group C and take their destiny into their own hands. They will face Nigeria, the weakest team in the group, on the last day and can dream of qualifying for the quarter-finals.

Colombia Rebells After El Clasico

Having faced the Blues twice (2-3), Colombia did not go into detail this time against New Zealand (2-0). The South Americans dominated remarkably, with a powerful strike from Marcela Restrepo (1-0, min. 26). They were rarely worried, as they shocked a second time by Lissy Maria Santos Herrera (2-0, 72), aided by the passivity of the opposition defence.

With this success, Colombia is on the mend, also benefiting from Canada's six points of withdrawal. Their victory also benefits the French team, as a draw with the Canadians would allow Hervé Renard's girls to punch their ticket to the quarter-finals.