When it comes to soccer, Spain is considered the powerhouse in the 2012 London Olympics, but they were stunned by the Japanese national team as the two squared up Thursday morning. Japan beat Spain by the score of 1-0.
In 95 minutes of play, Japan mustered the only goal of the game in the first half. In the 34th minute of play Yuki Otsu put Japan on the board and gave them the lead they needed to win this first matchup.
Spain found itself at a disadvantage early as Inigo Martinez received a red card forcing his removal from the field. With one man less on the field Japan attacked Spain's side of the field, but to no avail.
Spain is the first team from Group D to lose a match.
Honduras and Morocco squared off earlier on Thursday and they finished in a 2-2 match.
Now for Spain, they will have to dig out of their 0-1 hole with 2 more games left to play. Being that Spain has mastered the opposition in international competition, they are the heavy favorite to win the gold medal.
Their next match will be against Honduras and Japan will go against Morocco.
Both matches will take place on Sunday.
