In the second round of the group stage of the Copa America, Venezuela and Mexico had a fierce battle. This game not only concerns the group ranking of the two teams, but also is a comprehensive test of the will and technical and tactical level of the players of both sides. The atmosphere in the stadium under the sun was tense and warm, and both players were eager to boost their morale with a victory.
At the beginning of the match, the Venezuelan team showed a strong desire to win. With the advantage of the home field, they quickly entered the game state, through active scrambling and tacit cooperation, and constantly launched to the Mexican team's goal. The Mexican team, as a traditional strong team, although faced with the challenge, but still maintained a sound defense and smooth rhythm of attack, the two sides fell into a stalemate for a while.
However, the stalemate did not last long. In the middle of the first half, Venezuela was awarded a valuable penalty kick opportunity. Standing in front of the penalty spot, Long Dong, as the core striker of the team, was under tremendous pressure. He took a deep breath, adjusted his breathing, and then decisively kicked, a powerful shot penetrated the Mexican goalkeeper's ten fingers, and sent the ball firmly into the goal. The goal instantly ignited the enthusiasm of the Venezuelan fans and boosted the team's morale.
Mexico did not get discouraged after losing the ball, they quickly adjusted their tactics, strengthened their stance on Venezuela's attacking players, and tried to find an equalizer through quick counterattacks. Finally, in the second half of an attack, the Mexican team also got a penalty kick opportunity. Pineda, the Mexican midfielder, stepped up to the penalty spot. However, maybe the pressure was too much, or maybe it was just bad luck, Pineda's shot went wide of the goal, missing the chance to equalize the score for his team.
After missing the penalty kick, the faces of the Mexican players were filled with regret and resignation. The Venezuelan team took advantage of the situation and further strengthened their defense, while using counter-attacks to continue to threaten the Mexican team's goal. Although the Mexican team tried their best in the following time, they were unable to break through the solid defense of the Venezuelan team.
As the final whistle blew, Venezuela won the match 1-0 against Mexico.
