Brazil began their quest for Olympic soccer gold today as they defeat Egypt 3-2 at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff in the Olympic men's soccer Group C at the 2012 London Games.
Although never taking top honors in the Olympic Games, Brazil enters this year considered as the heavy favorite. The closest they have come to success has been winning silver twice in 1984 and 1988. They captured bronze in the 2008 Olympics at Beijing and 1996 in Atlanta.
Brazil started today's matchup breaking out to an early immediate 3-0 lead by intermission. Goals by Brazil were delivered by Rafael in the first 16 minutes of the match, followed by Leandro Damiao and Neymar.
Seven minutes into the second Egypt's Mohamed Abo Trika scored without hesitation off a rebound off the post cutting the lead to 3-1 in the second half.
On the following play that ensued, Egypt nearly cut the score down to 3-2 off a misplay by Brazil defender Marcelo, but Brazil managed to maintain the two goal cushion with good defense.
During the 76th minute Egypt managed to cut the score to 3-2 with a goal by Egypt's Mohamed Salah, thus making it a one-goal game in the remaining minutes.
With a possible upset on the verge of happening, Brazil began playing with more intensity to maintain their small lead. Brazil's Neymar almost gave his team extra cushion as he charged Egyptian goalie Ahmed Al Shenawy, but was stopped by Shenawy's tremendous play at the net.
Brazil managed to maintain their lead as they won with a final score of 3-2.
After today's win, Brazil leads the Olympic men's soccer Group with 3 points. Belarus is a close second as they also have 3 points.
