MATCH REPORT | Spain beats Japan, Advances to Olympic Semifinals (0-3)

The Olympic team will fight for the medals in Paris 2024 after winning by three goals to nil against Japan in the quarter-finals. Santi Denia's team will face Morocco for a place in the final next Monday, 5 August, at 18.00 in Marseille.

In a decisive moment of the tournament, Spain's best form surfaced as they outclassed a Japanese team that had kept clean sheets throughout the competition.

The match started with both sides pushing hard, but Spain soon took control of possession and the tempo of the game. Fermín López opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box, giving Spain the lead at Stade de Lyon.

The Spanish team put on an impressive display, dominating proceedings without giving Japan many chances. The Japanese had their best opportunities just before halftime, with two crosses from the right flank blocked and a header hitting the post.

Spain maintained their one-goal advantage going into the break. Early in the second half, Fermín's shot was saved, and he then set up Baena for another good chance that went wide. Japan pressed for an equalizer, but Spain held firm.

Miranda's free-kick was parried, leading to a corner that resulted in Fermín doubling Spain's lead with a right-footed finish. Substitute Abel Ruiz then added a third goal, pouncing on a rebound in the box to seal the victory.

For the second Olympics in a row, Spain's men's team has reached the semifinals and will now compete for a medal in Paris 2024.