Ecuador eliminated after 2-1 loss to Mexico
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-07-14 09:46

Mexico have secured a top two position in Group B by beating Ecuador 2-1. The tournament invitees will face either Peru or the runners-up of Group C in the quarter finals.

Mexico's Adolfo Bautista celebrates after he scored his team's second goal against Ecuador during their Copa America match at Miguel Grau stadium in Piura, July 13, 2004. Mexico won the game 2-1. [Reuters]

In the 26th minute, Mexico were given a penalty by referee Lecca and Altamirano struck in via the left post. Three minutes before the half time whistle, Bautista doubled the lead and secured the victory.

Ecuador did come back into the match however when Delgado got one back for his team in the 71st minute but the group minnows were unable to score a second goal.

Ecuador's striker Alex Aguinaga (R) is challenged by Mexico's Gerardo Torrado during their Copa America match at Miguel Grau stadium in Piura, July 13, 2004. [Reuters]

Whether Mexico end in first or second place in their Group will depend on the match between Argentina and Uruguay later tonight. If Argentina win or draw, the Mexicans will clinch the top spot. Both Argentina and Uruguay are certain of qualifying for the next round.

Ecuador leave the 2004 Copa America without having earned themselves a single point. Having scored three goals and conceded ten, it was a tournament not worth remembering.

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