Olympic Event #3 - Football

One of the reasons I love the Olympic Games is that a Canadian can watch a soccer game in England between Mexico and Japan.  And cheer for both.

A capacity crowd saw this semi-final in the new Wembley stadium - which an insightful friend has dubbed the (shopping basket). 

It's the first time I've been here and it is a vast space, seating more than 82,000, and its size is particularly impressive when viewed from a low seat at one end.

A good tight first half, but Mexico clearly had more gas in the tank in the second half and won 3-1.

Another reason I love the Olympics happened after the game, as we continued to sit in our seats to let the crowds disipate.  I saw a Mexican supporter, done up in stereotypical poncho and sombrero and with huge but very real moustaches, pointedly crossing the row of seats to get to two young Japanese supporters, also clothed in stereotypical Japanese garb, and shake their hand, then give them a hug.  The Japnese bowed and shook hands back.  Photos were taken.  More hugs and big smiles from all. 

 

And that, Charlie Brown, is what the Olympics are all about.