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Aside from Brazil, Spain were the favourites to win Olympic football gold this summer. They face a big battle now, though, after losing their opener to Japan 1-0 today.

For Spain to lose a game, at any level these days, is a shock. But today, not only did Japan beat them 1-0 in the first game of Group D, they could have beaten them by more.

Wasteful finishing by the excellent Japan meant that Spain always had a shot at getting back in but with La Roja playing with just 10 men following Inigo Martinez’ dismissal just before half-time, they never managed it.

It says it all that Spain’s best player was keeper David de Gea, who was kept busy all game.

Yuki Otsu got the decisive goal and now Spain must beat Honduras and a pretty handy Mexico side to be sure of going through.