Tokyo 2020 Olympics Daily Review – 22 July 2021

South Africa’s men’s football team disappointed in a 1-0 defeat to Japan which hardly saw David Notoane’s men trouble the opposition defence. A piece of magic from Takefusa Kubo sealed the game, but the scoreline probably flattered South Africa.

Earlier, Egypt executed a defensive masterclass as they held Spain to a 0-0 draw, an impressive result against a team widely viewed as the pre-tournament favourites.

This is good news for Brazil, the new bookies’ favourites, who were breathtaking on attack in their 4-2 win over Germany, with Richarlison starring with a hat-trick.

A superb goal from Franck Kessié handed Ivory Coast a 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia in what was altogether an impressive day for Africa.

In softball, there were wins for Australia, Japan and the USA over Italy, Mexico and Canada respectively.

Leonard Solms

Leonard Solms is a sports journalist who features regularly on various local and international platforms including ESPN, New Frame, FARPost, Tagged Online and Careers Magazine, as well as this one. He enjoys the occasional bet and the most important tip he can give you is to bet within your means.