OMNISPORT

Venezuela coach Rafael Dudamel was left with mixed emotions following his side's 1-1 draw with Mexico at the Copa America Centenario on Monday. 

A win for Venezuela would have sealed top spot in Group C and Jose Velazquez's first-half overhead kick had the South Americans on their way. 

But substitute Jesus Corona scored a brilliant solo goal with 10 minutes left to level, which meant Mexico finished top of the group.

The draw means Venezuela is likely to face Argentina in the quarterfinals, while Mexico will be left with either defending champion Chile or Panama. 

"Right now I feel bitterness. I feel bitterness because I wanted to win, and so did my players," Dudamel said following the match at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. "When I entered the locker room I saw all my players angry because they wanted the win.

"That makes me happy because they showed the level of commitment and character of winners."

He added: "We played a great game. I feel very proud of my players. Today we have taken a step in our very noticeable growth because there have been new players in the starting team. The order and the willingness and desire to win have been a lot better."