Japanese football is experiencing a remarkable rise on the international stage. Last year, the Tsunami-rocked nation celebrated a historic triumph in the Women’s World Cup at the expense of runners-up USA.
This year, there could be so much more for Japanese supporters to brag about. Their women’s team is a step away from striking gold in a repeat of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup final.
Likewise, the men’s U23 squad could fly home with gold medals around their neck. The dream is on for Japanese football but the Mexicans are looking to rob some pride off their opponents in the semi-finals.
Neutrals may prefer a Mexico vs Brazil final but the prospect of an unprecedented all-Asian final exists. Brazil’s adversaries, South Korea, are potentially dangerous.
They put up a stiff performance to oust host nation Great Britain in the quarter-finals. The Brazilians cannot afford to ignore South Korea’s threat in the Last 4. The pressure is on the South Americans, anyways.
Winning gold at London 2012 is a huge obligation for the country that will host the World Cup in 2014. Winning gold will actually put Brazil’s new generation of players at a higher level as the nation aims to reclaim its authority in the footballing world.
To sum up, Mexico vs Japan and South Korea vs Brazil are two very important games for the four participants involved. In a way, the semi-finals at London 2012 is a test for Asian football. The question is, how much has it progressed and where must it rank internationally?
The teams that will make the final will probably deserve their feat. The young players that will put in a lot of heart will certainly be tomorrow’s superstars.
