- Salomon Rondon scores from the spot in the 57th minute.
- Venezuela tops Group B with six points, securing a quarter-final spot.
- Jamaica eliminated after losses to Mexico and Ecuador.
Venezuela clinched a spot in the Copa America quarter-finals by defeating Mexico 1-0, with Salomon Rondon scoring a crucial penalty in the 57th minute. This victory, alongside their earlier triumph over Ecuador, elevated Venezuela to the top of Group B with six points.
The outcome also saw Jamaica eliminated from the tournament, having suffered defeats in their matches against Mexico and Ecuador. Venezuela’s upcoming match against Jamaica will determine whether they avoid defending champions
Venezuela’s Quarter-Final Hopes Secured with Victory Over Mexico
In a critical Copa America Group B clash, Venezuela emerged victorious over Mexico with a 1-0 win, thanks to Salomon Rondon’s expertly taken penalty in the second half. This win propels Venezuela to the top of their group with six points and guarantees their advancement to the quarter-finals, a game ahead of schedule.
Mexico had a chance to equalize in the 87th minute when they were awarded a penalty for a handball by Venezuelan defender Miguel Navarro. However, Venezuela’s goalkeeper Rafael Romo made a crucial save against Orbelin Pineda’s spot kick, preserving the clean sheet and the victory.
Jamaica, already struggling in the tournament, were officially eliminated following this match. With losses against both Mexico and Ecuador, Jamaica’s final group game against Venezuela is now a formality, unable to influence their standing in the tournament.
Looking ahead, Venezuela’s final group stage match against Jamaica will determine their position in the knockout stages. A draw or win will see them avoid a potentially tough quarter-final match against Argentina, enhancing their chances for a deeper run in the tournament.
Venezuela’s progression to the Copa America quarter-finals marks a significant achievement, as they look to build on their momentum and aim for a strong finish in the tournament.
“Sometimes we were not in possession of the ball, but we never gave up,” Venezuela coach Fernando Batista said through an interpreter. “They give it their all … and that makes me very proud.”
