PARIS, France — Liel Abada and Israel's hopes for a medal in soccer at the Paris Olympics ended with a loss to Japan on Tuesday.
Japan's Mao Hosoya scored off a cross from Kein Sato in the 90th minute to defeat Israel 1-0 and sweep the group stage.
Israel came into the match at the bottom of Group D with just one point accumulated through the first two group stage matches. Israel played to a 1-1 draw with Mali and lost 4-2 to Paraguay.
To advance to the quarterfinal round, Israel needed to beat Japan and the other Group D match between Mali and Paraguay to play to a draw. Paraguay beat Mali 1-0 to advance to the quarterfinals.
Japan was already locked into the quarterfinal round after beating Mali and Paraguay.
Israel was competing in soccer at the Olympics for the first time since 1976.
Abada hails from Petah Tikva, Israel, and plays as a forward for Charlotte FC. Abada came to the Queen City in 2024 after playing three seasons with Celtic in the Scottish Premiership. He scored 21 goals for Celtic and has netted four goals with Charlotte FC.
During Tuesday's match, Abada attempted three shots and assisted with one shot attempt. He was unable to score during the three games he appeared in during the Paris Olympics.
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