Mexico 1 Venezuela 1: Jesus Corona’s stunning equaliser ensures Mexicans avoid Argentina

Jesus Corona netted a sensational solo goal with just ten minutes remaining to ensure Mexico stole top spot in Group C from Venezuela.

The South Americans have been the surprise package of the Copa America Centenario so far, having beaten Jamaica and, even more astonishingly, Uruguay.

But they will now have to settle for second place — and likely encounter with Argentina in the last-eight.

Jose Velazquez had given Venezuela a tenth minute lead with a superb acrobatic effort.

But they were forced to defend as Mexico threw everything at their opposition.

Both teams came into this match on full points and qualification guaranteed, but it was fiery encounter with both sides flying into tackles.

Mexico boss, Juan Carlos Osorio, left star striker, Javier Hernandez, on the bench.

Venezuela goalkeeper, Dani Hernandez, produced a stunning save to keep Mexico at bay.

Corona came close to equalising for La Tricolor with an unbelievable solo run 11 minutes from time but shot just wide.

And, remarkably, the Porto striker produced an even more impressive run just a minute later, taking on almost the entire Venezuelan defence before beating Hernandez to level the match.

The goal Mexico were now back on top — and Venezuela threw everything at their opponents in search of a winner.

Torino striker Josef Martinez came agonisingly close with a bicycle kick four minutes later. Mexico goalkeeper, Jose Corona, tipped the effort over the bar.

Chicharito, who had been introduced on 67 minutes, came close to ending all Venezuelan hope, but his shot was blocked.

Despite a frantic finale, Mexico will now face the winners of Chile’s clash with Panama.

While Venezuela have the unenviable task of taking on Argentina.

With big hitters Brazil and Uruguay eliminated, the trophy really is up for grabs.