Venezuela advances to Copa America quarterfinals

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LOS ANGELES, June 27, (Xinhua): Salomon Rondon converted a second-half penalty as Venezuela advanced to the Copa America knockout phase with a 1-0 victory over Mexico.
Rondon put his side ahead in the 57th minute at SoFi Stadium after Jon Aramburu was brought down by Julian Quinones.

Mexico controlled 62% of the total possession, completed almost 200 more passes than their rivals, and had eight more shots on goal.
But Jaime Lozano’s men were unable to capitalize on their chances as the Vinotinto made it two wins from as many outings this tournament.

Fernando Batista’s men are now guaranteed a place in the quarterfinals, while Mexico must win their final group match against Ecuador in Phoenix on Sunday to progress.
“We showed tonight that we are a difficult team to play against,” Rondon said afterward.
“It was a tough game, but we were able to overcome Mexico by playing to our strengths and working hard as a team.”

Earlier, Ecuador moved to second in Group B with a 3-1 win over Jamaica in Las Vegas.
Kasey Palmer gifted Ecuador the lead at Allegiant Stadium and Kendry Paez doubled the advantage just before halftime. Michail Antonio reduced the deficit with a 54th-minute strike, but Alan Minda put the result beyond doubt in the first minute with his team’s third goal in the first minute of stoppage time.
The result ruled out any chance Jamaica had of advancing to the competition’s last eight.

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