Watch Ecuador vs Venezuela full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 00:00 (GMT) on 23rd June 2024
The referee for this match is W. Roldán
Game played at Levi’s Stadium
This is a match in South America – CONMEBOL Copa America, Group B, Season 2024
Ecuador’s Copa América Misery Continues with 2-1 Loss to Venezuela
Ecuador’s winless streak in the Copa América extended to 10 games (D4, L6) after a 1-0 lead turned into a 2-1 defeat against Venezuela in their 2024 tournament opener at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. The turning point of the match came when Ecuador’s captain, Enner Valencia, was sent off in the first half.
Early Drama and Red Card Incident
The key moment occurred in the 19th minute when 17-year-old Kendry Páez executed a brilliant one-two with Piero Hincapié, forcing Venezuelan goalkeeper Rafael Romo into a fine save. However, in the ensuing chaos, Valencia attempted to make contact with the ball but ended up kicking José Martínez in the chest. Initially shown a yellow card, Valencia’s offense was upgraded to a red after Colombian referee Wilmar Roldán reviewed the VAR footage, reducing Ecuador to 10 men.
Venezuela Takes Control
With the numerical advantage, Venezuela began to assert themselves. Their first significant chance came from a Yeferson Soteldo corner, flicked on by captain Salomón Rondón to Yordan Osorio, whose close-range effort was stopped by Ecuadorian goalkeeper Alexander Domínguez. Despite the pressure, Ecuador managed to take the lead in the 40th minute. Páez’s clipped free-kick into the box was partially cleared by Osorio, but Jeremy Sarmiento capitalized on the loose ball, firing a brilliant shot into the bottom left corner of Romo’s goal.
Second Half: Venezuelan Comeback
At halftime, Venezuelan manager Fernando Batista made crucial substitutions, bringing on Jhonder Cádiz and Eduard Bello. These changes invigorated La Vintotinto, who started the second half strongly. Despite Romo’s smart save from Moisés Caicedo’s deflected strike, Venezuela’s persistence paid off in the 64th minute. A rushed clearance by Willian Pacho led to Bello taking a quick throw-in, with Rondón setting up Cádiz, whose deflected shot off Félix Torres found the net, marking his first international goal.
Ten minutes later, the comeback was complete. Alexander González’s cross was headed on target by Rondón, forcing a parry from Domínguez, but Bello was quick to react, scoring from close range to secure a 2-1 lead.
Aftermath and Looking Ahead
The victory was Venezuela’s first in six games, providing a morale boost ahead of their next Group B match against Mexico. Ecuador, likely without their suspended captain Valencia, must regroup quickly as they face Jamaica.
Key Moments
- Red Card Controversy: Enner Valencia’s red card after a VAR review shifted the game’s momentum in favor of Venezuela.
- Ecuador’s Opening Goal: Jeremy Sarmiento’s strike gave Ecuador a 1-0 lead despite being a man down.
- Venezuelan Equalizer: Jhonder Cádiz’s deflected goal brought Venezuela level.
- Winning Goal: Eduard Bello’s quick reaction and finish sealed the victory for Venezuela.
Conclusion
Ecuador’s 2-1 loss to Venezuela underscores their ongoing struggles in the Copa América. The match’s pivotal moment was Valencia’s red card, which allowed Venezuela to dominate and ultimately secure a comeback victory. Ecuador must now focus on overcoming their challenges as they prepare for their next match against Jamaica.