PUERTO LA CRUZ, Venezuela - Chile and Mexico were jeered off the pitch after a dismal 0-0 draw at the Copa America on Wednesday but made no apologies for their performances.

The result suited both teams as Chile qualified for the second round with four points from three games and Mexico, already through, guaranteed top spot in Group B with seven.

"We didn't want to get caught in their trap and play the type of game they wanted," said Mexico coach Hugo Sanchez.

"I don't know if they really wanted to win. We wanted to win but it's difficult to attack against a team like Chile who are looking after their interets."

Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa said the approach from both teams was understandable.

"We were both playing for something," he said.

"We have reached our target and finished top of the group and it was unlikely Chile were going to do much attacking in that situation."

Chile coach Nelson Acosta also defended his tactics.

"We wanted to win the game but, of course, we took precautions as we didn't want to leave ourselves open to the counter-attack," he said.

"We qualified and that is what is important. Football depends a lot upon the moment.

"I don't think the Chilean fans would have been very happy if we'd lost 5-0 and got knocked out."