US Mens Olympic Team over Japan 1-0

After a scoreless first half an early second half attack led to a Stuart Holden goal that would hold up as the US defeated Japan 1-0 to open the 2008 Beijing Olympics. 

It was a cagey first half that saw Japan attack well down the flanks and create a couple of pretty good chances.  Both squads earned a few corners and set pieces, but neither could cash in and the game went to half scoreless.

The Americans came out on the attack to begin second half play and were rewarded quickly.  Right back Marvell Wynne got forward and sent a cross into the box that was dealt with poorly by the Japan defense.  The soft clearance fell to Stuart Holden who fired from 18.  The Japanese keeper should have done better, but the ball squibbed through him and into the net for the US lead.

As the second half wore on Japan pressed for the equalizer and looked dangerous on several occasions, including a pair of penalty appeals that went unrewarded.  Next up for the Americans is Holland this weekend.  Holland and Ivory Coast tied in the other group match.