Sebastian Cordova scored a penalty and created two goals as Mexico defeated hosts Japan 3-1 in Saitama on Friday to earn bronze in the men’s Olympic football tournament. Cordova, who plays for Mexico’s Club America, converted an early spot-kick for the 2012 gold medallists after a foul by Wataru Endo on Alexis Vega.Defender Johan Vasquez, sent off in the 2-1 loss to Japan in the group stage, peeled free of his marker to head in Cordova’s free-kick as Mexico doubled their lead midway through the first half. Another Cordova delivery created Mexico’s third goal on the hour when Vega headed in superbly from a corner.MEXICO WIN BRONZE IN MEN’S OLYMPIC FOOTBALL 🇲🇽They beat Japan 3-1 to claim the medal #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/MxiK0pmW8Q— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 6, 2021 Japan grabbed a consolation through substitute Kaoru Mitoma but finished fourth for the second time in three Olympics, having also lost the third-place playoff at London 2012. Reigning champions Brazil play Spain, who won the title on home soil in 1992, in the final in Yokohama on Saturday.TOKYO 2020 – Men’s football tournamentBronze medal matchFridayMexico – Japan 3-1 (2-0)/Cordova 13 pen, Vasquez 22, Vega 58 – Mitoma 78/Gold medal matchSaturday14.30: (2.75) Brazil (2.75) Spain (3.00)***odds are subject to change
