LONDON, July 26 (Xinhua) -- Gold medal favorites Spain were upset 1-0 by valiant Japan in their first group match of the London Olympic Games men's football competition on Thursday.
Spain should have felt lucky to lose by only one goal as their passing game deserted them and allowed Japan 12 shots compared with their six ones.
Spain went behind in the 34th minute as Yuki Otsu arrived unmarked to meet a corner and give Japan an unlikely lead. Eight minutes later, the Spaniards' hopes to equalise were dashed as their midfielder Inigo Martinez were sent off
It was the first time the Japanese had ever beaten the World and European champions at any level.
Great Britain were held to a 1-1 draw by Senegal. Craig Bellamy put the hosts ahead in the 20th minute, and Senegal pulled even with eight minutes to go.
Brazil survived a late assault by Egypt to win 3-2. The Brazilians raced to a three-goal lead in the first 30 minutes as Rafael, Leandro Damiao and Neymar found the net.
Egypt regrouped in the second half as Mohamed Abo Trika and Mohamed Salah scored, but Brazil held to win.
In other matches of the day, Honduras drew with Morocco 2-2, Mexico were held to a goalless draw by the Republic of Korea, Uraguay beat UAE 2-1, and Belarus beat New Zealand 1-0.