The result leaves Group A finely poised heading into Sunday’s second round of matches, with Iraq and Denmark having played out a goalless draw earlier in Brasilia.
Advertisement
Brazil’s first significant chance of Rio 2016 came in the 16th minute when Gabriel Gabigol Barbosa found space to drop a ball over the head of the last South Africa defender Mulomowandau Matholo, but Gabriel Jesus couldn’t quite convert the opportunity.
Gabriel Jesus had the best chance of the game in the 69th minute when he was able to convert from close range in front of an open net, his strike hitting the post.
However, he endured a frustrating afternoon on a sandy and slow surface in Brasilia as South Africa held out despite Mothobi Mvala’s red card half an hour from time. If you would like to discuss another topic, look for a relevant article.
They had also failed to provide joy to millions of their countrymen, for whom football is religion and who expect their national Olympic team to deliver success, two years after a humiliating 7-1 defeat by Germany in the semi-finals of the World Cup on home soil. Although they endured sustained periods of pressure from the Brazilians, especially after going a man down in the 59th minute, South Africa put in a spirited performance and threatened to score on a number of occasions.
“I am disappointed that I could not score, it was a mistake and that shouldn’t happen”, he said.
The first goals in the competition came later on Thursday in Rio, where Honduras beat Algeria 3-2 in an enthralling match.
World champions Germany played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with 2012 gold medallists Mexico under a torrential downpour in Salvador.
Brazil vs South Africa soccer game kick off time is at 3:00 PM ET, TV Channel Schedule is on NBCSN and live streaming online is available through NBC Sports Live Extra.
Asked what the princess told him, Murray replied: “I think she said: ‘Just make sure you don’t poke my eye out, ‘ or something along those lines”.
Advertisement
Neymar has already established himself as a top player with Barcelona, while Gabriel Jesus and Gabigol are considered Brazil’s next big stars, 19-year-olds who are set to make their move to big European teams. The Brazilians, especially Neymar, made several attempts at the South African goal but in vain. “Credit must go to all the players and the supporting staff. We did it for our country”, said Khune.
