Mexico, Venezuela Tie Match to Advance To Copa Quarter-Finals

Jose Manuel Velazquez of Venezuela celebrates after scoring the opening goal during a group C match between Mexico and Venezuela at NRG Stadium as part of Copa America Centenario US 2016 on June 13, 2016 in Houston, Texas, US.

By NAN Sports Editor

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. June 14, 2016: Mexico’s soccer squad held on for a draw in their match-up with Venezuela Monday night, ensuring a place in the COPA America quarter-finals.

Venezuela struck for a first-half goal with just 10 minutes in, as Alejandro Guerra’s free kick was headed across the six-yard box by Christian Santos and powered into the net with an acrobatic flying volley by center back José Manuel Velázquez to  give the South American nation their one and only goal of the night.

But Mexico held on as Jesus Corona’s goal in the 80th minute ensured they remain unbeaten in 22 matches and  advance as well to the QFs.

The final score – 1-1 – at NRG Stadium in Houston.

Although both teams advance to Saturday’s Quarterfinals, the result likely allows Mexico to avoid top-ranked Argentina.

A Quarterfinal showdown with the second-place team from Group D will be played on Saturday, June 18 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.