HOUSTON — Gerardo Arteaga scored from the edge of the penalty area in the 69th minute, and Mexico beat Jamaica 1-0 on Saturday night in its Copa America opener.
El Tri, competing as a guest in South America’s championship for the 11th time, dominated the match and scored on their 17th shot.
Joel Latibeaudiere’s weak headed clearance went to Luis Romo, who controlled the ball off a thigh and passed to Arteaga. His left-foot shot beat goalkeeper Jahmali Waite and went inside the far post for his second goal in 25 international appearances.
Michail Antonio appeared to put Jamaica ahead with a short-range header in the 50th minute but the goal was disallowed for offside following a video review.
Mexico captain Edson Álvarez left in the 30th minute following a left hamstring injury and was replaced by Romo.
Venezuela beat Ecuador 2-1 in the other Group B match. Mexico plays Venezuela at Inglewood, California, on Wednesday, when Jamaica faces Ecuador at Las Vegas. The group finishes on June 30, when Mexico plays Ecuador at Glendale, Arizona, and Jamaica faces Venezuela at Austin, Texas.
El Tri reached the semifinals in 1997, 1999 and 2007. The Reggae Boyz are 0-7 in the tournament following group-stage elimination in 2015 and 2016.
Before a crowd of 53,763 at NRG Stadium, Mexico wore red, green and black jerseys patterned after folk art.
El Tri has not lost to Jamaica since the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal.
In a thrilling match that saw Mexico face off against Jamaica in their Copa America opener, it was Gerardo Arteaga who emerged as the hero for his team. The young defender scored a crucial goal in the 69th minute to secure a 1-0 victory for Mexico and get their campaign off to a winning start.
The match was closely contested from the start, with both teams showing their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. Mexico had the lion’s share of possession and created several scoring opportunities, but Jamaica’s defense held firm and kept them at bay.
It wasn’t until the 69th minute that the breakthrough finally came for Mexico. A well-worked move down the left flank saw Arteaga receive the ball in space inside the penalty area. With composure and precision, he slotted the ball past the Jamaican goalkeeper to give his team the lead.
From that moment on, Mexico controlled the game and managed to see out the victory, thanks in large part to a solid defensive display. Jamaica tried to push for an equalizer in the closing stages of the match, but Mexico’s backline held firm and secured all three points.
Arteaga’s goal was not only important for Mexico in terms of securing the victory, but it also showcased his talent and potential as a young player. At just 22 years old, Arteaga has already established himself as a key figure in Mexico’s defense and his performance in this match will only enhance his reputation.
Overall, Mexico’s victory over Jamaica in their Copa America opener was a positive start to their campaign. With Gerardo Arteaga’s goal proving to be the difference, Mexico will now look to build on this result and continue their quest for success in the tournament.