Tokyo Olympics 2021: Japan vs Spain U23 Football Match Preview and Prediction

Another thrilling match-up sees the hosts Japan go head to head with Spain at Saitama Stadium on Tuesday for a place in the final of the Men's U-23 Football event. 

Tokyo 2021 Olympics: Match details 

Event: Football U-23 Semi-final
Match: Japan vs Spain
Date: 3 August 2021
Location: Saitama Stadium
Kick-off time: 8 pm (JST) 1 pm (CET)

Spain finally found their goal-scoring rhythm when they thumped Ivory Coast 5-2, thanks to a hat-trick from Rafa Mir. He will play a pivotal role when they face host nation Japan in the semis of the men’s tournament.

Japan has been outstanding in the tournament and has set its bar high going into the tournament. They will face their real task against Spain, who found their goal-scoring mojo back. 

Spain U23 vs Japan U23: Head-to-Head

Last time both the nation shared the pitch was back in 2012 London Olympics where Japan secured narrow 1-0 victory over Spain. 

Spain U23 form guide: D-W-D-W

Japan U23 form guide: D-W-W-W-W

Spain U23 vs Japan U23: Predicted XI

Japan (4-2-3-1): Kosei Tani; Hiroki Sakai, Ko Itakura, Maya Yoshida, Reo Hatate; Wataru Endo, Ao Tanaka; Ritsu Doan, Takefusa Kubo, Kaoru Mitoma; Ayase Ueda.

Spain (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Oscar Gil, Eric Garcia, Pau Torres, Marc Cucurella; Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, Pedri; Mikel Oyarzabal, Rafa Mir, Dani Olmo.

Spain U23 vs Japan U23: Prediction 

Japan has been unpredictable throughout the games and ousted big teams on their way to the semi-final. However, they struggled against New Zealand for 120 minutes, and a penalty shootout was their only way to qualify for the semi-final.  

Spain had their fair share in the tournament, as they lacked finishing in front of goal. However, after defeating Ivory Coast 5-2, Spain has finally got their goal-scoring momentum. 

This will be a tough game between both the nation and Spain has a quality squad to pull off a narrow victory against the host nation.