Japan vs. South Africa Olympics 2020 Soccer Picks, Odds, Predictions 7/22/21

Japan and South Africa are facing off at Ajinomoto Stadium in Round 1 of Group A in the Olympics 2021 soccer tournament. Japan is a solid team with some talented players, and they have had a successful game against Spain a few days ago. South Africa has played in the 2016 Olympics, but they haven’t had much success, and I don’t think they will have any here.

Japan’s most notable player is Takefusa Kubo, a player who is playing for Real Madrid, but he will most likely go on another loan before the start of the season. Kubo has had some fantastic games in Villarreal and Getafe last season, and he has a bright future ahead. In their friendly game against Spain a few days ago, Japan has had the lead since the 41^st minute, but they have conceded a goal in the 77^th minute, and this match has ended in a 1-1 draw. as far as this tournament goes, Japan is in the group with France, Mexico, and South Africa, and I think they are good enough to fight for one of the top two spots that will get them through the group stage. A lot of Japan’s players are playing in their national league, and in the Korean league, but they are all good players with plenty of games in their feet.

South Africa has a few players playing in Europe, but most of their squad is coming from the South African national league. The last time South Africa was in this tournament was in 2016, and they have had 2 draws and 1 loss, alongside 2 conceded goals and 1 scored goal. South Africa hasn’t gotten past the group stage. South Africa also hasn’t played any friendly games before this tournament, and their expectations are low. I think they are aware in South Africa they don’t stand a chance in this group, but they are hoping to score a goal or two and try not to lose by too many goals. As I’ve mentioned, most of the players on this team are coming from the South African national league, and that is not a strong league, and with everything happening in South Africa right now, I don’t think soccer is on everyone’s mind.

Japan is a much better team here, they are massive favorites, and deservedly so. South Africa is not a good team, and without a single friendly game played, they are even worse. I’m taking Japan and the goals in this one.