Venezuela and Mexico top Group B. Matchday results at Copa America

The premier tournament of North and South America, the Copa America, is gaining momentum. Today, two group stage matches took place, marking the first games for teams in Group B.

In the first match at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Ecuador faced Venezuela. The nominal hosts were considered the favorites, but their opponents had their own plans for the match.

In the 22nd minute, Ecuadorian striker Enner Valencia made a reckless play, striking an opponent in the head. After a VAR review, the referee issued a straight red card to Valencia. Despite this setback, Ecuador managed to take the lead at the end of the first half thanks to a brilliant strike by Brighton's forward Jeremy Sarmiento.

However, in the second half, Venezuela played more aggressively. In the 64th minute, Jhonder Cádiz equalized the score. Ten minutes later, Eduard Bello capitalized on a rebound to put his team ahead. Ecuador fought hard to salvage the match but to no avail.

Copa America 2024
First Round
Ecuador – Venezuela 1:2
Goals: Sarmiento 40’ – Cádiz 64’, Bello 74’

In the second match, Mexico clashed with Jamaica at the NRG Stadium in Houston. The Mexicans were clear favorites and demonstrated this on the field, albeit not without some struggle.

The first half was relatively calm, with only three shots on target. The second half began more dynamically, and in the 50th minute, West Ham's striker Michail Antonio scored for Jamaica, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review for offside. Seizing the opportunity, Mexico's Gerardo Arteaga found the net in the 69th minute. The match continued energetically, but no further goals were scored, resulting in a narrow victory for Mexico.

Copa America 2024
First Round
Mexico – Jamaica 1:0
Goals: Arteaga 69’

After the third matchday, Venezuela and Mexico top Group B with three points each. In the next round, the current leaders will face each other, while Ecuador will play against Jamaica.

In the first two matchdays of Copa America, Group A matches took place. In the opening match, Argentina confidently defeated Canada (2:0), and yesterday, Peru and Chile played to a goalless draw.

Tonight, the first matches of Group C will take place, with the USA facing Bolivia and Uruguay taking on Panama.