Yesterday, Venezuela made history at SoFi stadium in California, winning 1-0 against Mexico. The soccer champs claimed the top spot of Group B and qualified for the quarterfinals.
There were 72,773 people in attendance, many of whom made it clear that the Mexican national team was really at home.
During the first half, México started with great momentum, controlled the ball, and created many opportunities to score. But Venezuela became a threatening force after the second half began, creating multiple chances.
In the fifty-seventh minute came the penalty that decided the fate of “El Tri.” Venezuelan Captain Jose Salomon Rondon made the game 1-0 with a decisive strike.
Down a goal, Mexico started to desperately look for an equalizer, but their lack of precision together with Venezuela’s defense prevented them from finding the back of the net.
Mexico’s biggest opportunity came in the eighty-seventh minute with a penalty. However, a crucial save by the Venezuelan goalkeeper Rafael Romo sealed the deal for them.
Venezuela has officially qualified for the quarter-finals and will have a chance to clinch first place with a win or draw versus Jamaica. Mexico must win against Ecuador to advance, as a loss and even a draw would see the latter go through.
Both of these games will be on Sunday, June 30.
