Olympic Soccer 2012: Mexico Beats Senegal in Extra Time to Advance to Semifinals

Mexico beat Senegal 4-2 in extra time to advance to the semifinals of the men's Olympic tournament.   

Mexico will play Japan in the next round after Japan had no problem disposing of Egypt in the quarterfinal match. Japan scored early in the 14th minute and added two goals late to close out Egypt. 

The result was well deserved for the Mexico side that looked like the better team on the afternoon.

Mexico took an early lead behind a Jorge Enriquez goal in the ninth minute. In the 61st minute, it appeared Mexico had scored a winner as Javier Aquino put the side up 2-0. Senegal responded just seven minutes later as Moussa continued his strong form, scoring in the 68th minute.

Senegal kept fighting and in the 75th minute Ibrahima Balde pulled Senegal level. The last 15 minutes saw Senegal hold off Mexico and force extra time. 

Senegal keeper Ousmane Mane came up big to start extra time with an incredible save, throwing his foot out to stop a one-on-one chance on goal. He was let down by his defense with a terrible giveaway just outside the box. Mexico's Gio Dos Santos took advantage and slotted past Mane in the 97th minute. 

Hector Herrera guaranteed Mexico's placement in the semifinals with a goal in the 108th minute to give Mexico a 4-2 lead. Senegal continued to fight on, but didn't have enough to once again equalize after falling behind two goals.  

After going up 2-0, lazy defensive play and lack of killer instinct allowed a resilient Senegal team to level the score. Mexico can't afford that type of play against Japan to maintain a realistic chance of making it to the gold medal match. 

Senegal bows out of the tournament in the quarterfinals after putting together a surprising and entertaining tournament. 

Mexico and Japan will play in the semifinals on August 7th at 12:00 p.m. ET.