Match Analysis: Team GB 3-1 UAE

Team GB took a stride towards the quarter-finals of the men's football competition at the Olympics thanks to a 3-1 win over the United Arab Emirates at Wembley earlier tonight.

It was a game in which both sides had their chances, while substitutions also made an impact.

Here, Sports Mole has examined whether the result was a fair one.

Statistics:

Team GB:

Shots: 16
On target: 10
Possession 59
Corners 5
Fouls 7

UAE:

Shots: 14
On target: 2
Possession 41
Corners 4
Fouls 8

Was the result fair?

Just about! Both sides created chances, but Team GB were the more clinical in front of goal. There was a spell at the start of the second half where the UAE really dominated proceedings. However, over the course of 90 minutes you would have to say that Team GB edged it.

Team GB's performance

In spells it was very good. There was some slick passing, with the experienced Welsh duo of Ryan Giggs and Craig Bellamy at the centre of anything good. The defence still remains a problem though - a statement highlighted by the ease in which the UAE equalised. Better opposition will take full advantage of those frailties.

UAE's performance

If the UAE had a prolific striker in their ranks then the scoreline could have been different. They missed a couple of chances at the beginning of the second half which ultimately proved costly to their chances of winning the match.

Man of the Match

Craig Bellamy - The Liverpool man was on top form this evening. He claimed two assists and was a constant thorn in the side of the UAE defence.

Biggest gaffe

The unwanted award goes to the UAE's Ahmed Khalil. With the scores level at one goal apiece, the midfielder found himself with just goalkeeper Jack Butland to beat. His finish was weak though and the Birmingham City keeper easily made a save.

Referee's performance

Mexican Roberto Garcia had a solid game on the Wembley turf. He let the play flow, which is always a good thing.

What next?

Team GB: A match against Uruguay in which a draw will be enough to see them qualify. They will have defend better than their last two outings though. You get the impression that Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani would fancy their chances against Team GB's current defence.

UAE: Home! They've provided some good entertainment in their opening two matches, but it wasn't enough. They still have one group fixture against Senegal to come.