KARACHI: The usual rules governing soccer don't apply in the Olympics, where Spain was eliminated Sunday, ending its bid to become the first country to hold the World Cup, European and Olympic titles at the same time.
Spain are out of the Olympic men's football competition after suffering a shock 1-0 defeat by Honduras who won thanks to Jerry Bengtson's early goal, and now progress from Group D along with Japan, who beat Morocco 1-0.
Spain entered the games as one of the favourites and looking to add the Olympic title to its World Cup and European Championship trophies. So far, they haven't even scored a goal, losing 1-0 to Japan in their opener.
“The team was tense from the beginning because they knew that they had to score to qualify for the next round,” Coach Luis Milla said. “And the early goal made it harder.”
Rodrigo had a header from five yards out on 81 minutes which hit the Honduran crossbar when it really seemed easier to score and from there it seemed as if it wasn’t going to be La Roja‘s night at St. James’ Park.
Spain had plenty of chances with Muniain, Adrian and the aforementioned Rodrigo all having efforts which came back into play having come off the Honduran woodwork in the second half.
Spain spent the closing quarter of the game camped inside the Honduran final third and they had more than one valid penalty claim.
Honduras coach Luis Fernando Suarez admitted his team was lucky to come out of the match with all three points.
“Things went our way tonight, because Spain could have come back to tie or win the game,” Suarez said. “We have to remain calm as we look to qualify, because the next match will be very hard.”
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