Brazil's quest for Olympic gold in men’s football began on a dull note as they were held to a goalless draw against South Africa in the opener on Thursday. Neymar failed to inspire his team to towards their maiden football Olympic medal.
Neymar, the biggest name taking part in the football competition, has the task of restoring the lost pride of Brazilian football after a devastating 2014 World Cup. However, he endured a frustrating 90 minutes as South Africa gave it their all despite Mothobi Mvala's red card half an hour from time. Sporting the captain’s armband, Neymar failed to have any sort of impact on the game. Group A is now in a four-way tie on one point after Iraq and Denmark also played out a scoreless draw earlier.
In the opening match of Group D, Honduras edged Algeria 3-2. Romell Quioto struck first for Honduras followed by defender Marcelo Pereira's header for the 2-0 advantage. However, Algeria’s Sofiane Bendekba got one back in the second half. But, Honduras would strike again with Anthony Lozano netting the third. However, Algeria continued their fightback with Baghdad Bounedjah scoring the second which was a little too late.