Ecuador’s national team achieved a vital victory by beating Jamaica 3-1 in the second match of Group B of the Copa América. This triumph allows the Ecuadorians to get back on the path to success after the defeat suffered in the first match against Venezuela.
The scoreboard quickly opened in Ecuador’s favor thanks to Piero Hincapié, who in the 13th minute sent a cross into the area that deflected off Kasey Palmer, creating a strange effect that sent the ball into the back of the net. This early goal gave confidence to the Ecuadorian team, which showed its determination to correct its course in the tournament.
The game became very physical and, before half-time, a controversial play reviewed by the VAR resulted in a penalty in favor of Ecuador. Kendry Páez, at only 17 years old, was in charge of collecting and extending the advantage for his team, becoming the youngest scorer in the Copa América in the 21st century. With this goal, Páez added another record to his already impressive young career.
The second half was more challenging for Ecuador. Jamaica got into the game thanks to the goal from Michael Antonio, who did not forgive inside the area and made the Ecuadorians suffer. With the score at 2-1, Jamaica pressed in search of an equalizer, generating moments of tension on the field.
When it seemed that Jamaica was close to equalizing, Ecuador pulled out its claws in a lethal counterattack. In the 90th minute+1, Alan Minda went alone towards the goal and with a cross shot he defeated the resistance of the rival goalkeeper, sealing the final 3-1 and ending the Jamaican illusions.
This first victory for Ecuador in the Copa America not only means three vital points, but also restores the team’s confidence in a group that looks very competitive, with Mexico and Venezuela also fighting for qualification. With this result, Ecuador is back in the race and preparing to face the next challenges of the tournament with renewed hope.
