Mexico vs. Japan: Top Players to Watch During Intriguing Semifinal Match

For the first time since Mexico City in 1968, Japan and Mexico are in the soccer semifinals at the Olympics, but this time around, one of them is going to the finals.

In '68, both countries fell in the semis before the Japanese took out the hosts by a score of 2-0 for the bronze medal. 

It's rematch time. 

Both countries have rolled fairly easily to this point.

Mexico's play wasn't always pretty during the group stages, but a draw against South Korea and wins against Gabon and Switzerland put them through to the quarters. There, they managed to knock off Senegal 4-2 in extra time. 

Japan, on the other hand, has been impressive on the defensive end. The Japanese beat the Spanish favorites, beat Morocco and drew with Honduras. After a 3-0 win over Egypt, they enter the semis without having allowed a goal thus far. 

If I were to pick, I would say Japan squeezes out a win on Tuesday night in London, but that's not what we're here for. We're here for the immense talent that will be showcased in this one.

Let's take a look at the best players to keep your eye on. 

Kensuke Nagai, Japan

Nagai, who, according to ESPN, trained in Brazil as a youngster, is a dynamic, young forward. The 23-year-old leads Japan with two goals on 12 total shots—seven of which have been on target.

He's been the most dangerous threat for the Japanese, and although they have been more defensively minded, he's someone to watch when he gets the ball at his feet. 

The speedster hasn't gotten much attention at the club level, but if he continues to play at this level, he should get some offers. 

Giovani dos Santos, Mexico

The lack of minutes for dos Santos in Mexico's first two matches was a little perplexing, but now that he's entrenched in the starting lineup, watch out.

Against South Korea, Mexico's only non-win of the Olympics, Dos Santos, for whatever reason, didn't play.

The next match, he only played the second half—and scored two goals in less than 45 minutes. 

Finally, Dos Santos got well-deserved starts against Switzerland and Senegal, scoring yet another goal and racking up eight total shots.

For whatever reason, the 23-year-old Mexican has always been much more effective on the international level. In this one, it's pretty clear that he'll be the quickest, the most exciting and arguably the most talented player on the pitch.

Hiroki Sakai, Japan

While creating scoring opportunities is certainly important, and Nagai and Dos Santos will likely provide plenty of those, this one could very well come down to defense.

Should that happen, defender Hiroki Sakai will be a big reason why.

The newly acquired star for Hannover has been terrific in London, defending the back well and helping Japan to four clean sheets. 

The 22-year-old is clearly on his way up on the club level, but he's proving his immense worth to Japan with his stout defense. 

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