South Africa – 0

Mexico – 3 (Vega 18’ Romo 43’ Martin 60’)

28 July 2021 – South Africa finished bottom of the group after three losses at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan. The u23s lost 1-0 to hosts Japan in the opening match, 4-3 to France before losing 3-0 to on fire Mexico in their last game on Wednesday.

Goals from Alexis Vega and Luis Romo in the 18th and 43rd minute respectively and a third by Martin on the 60th minute, saw Mexico qualify for the knockout stages, second on the log standings as hosts Japan who beat France 4-0 qualified as group winners after winning all three matches.

The second half offered South Africa no room to return as captain Tercious Malepe was handed a red card in the 55th minute for a very dangerous foul, just before Mexico got their third goal from Henry Martin.

Mexico were also reduced to 10 men in the 66th minute when Rodriguez fouled Singh who was in a goal scoring position.

South Africa starting XI: Ronwen Williams (GK); Tercious Malepe (c); Luke Fleurs; Katlego Mohamme; Teboho Mokoena; Thabo Cele; Thendo Mukumela; Luther Singh; Kamohelo Mahlatsi; Kobamelo Kodisang; Evidence Makgapo

South Africa substitutes: Mondli Mpoto (GK); Sifiso Mlungwana (GK); Reeve Frosler; Thabiso Monyane; Sibusiso Mabiliso; Macbeth Mahlangu; Goodman Mosele; Nkosingiphile Ngcobo

Mexico starting XI: Guillemo Ochoa (GK)( C); Jorge Sanchez; Cesar Montes; Jesus Angulo; Vladimir Lorona; Luis Romo; Carlos Rodriguez; Henry Martin; Alexis Vega; Uriel Anuna; Sebastian Cordova

Mexican substitutes: Sebastian Jurado (GK); Diego Lainez; Adrian Mora; Joaquin Esquivel; Eduardo Aguirre; Ricardo Angulo; Roberto Alvarado;

Source: South African Football Association