CUIABA, Brazil, June 21 (Xinhua) — Veteran forward Eduardo Vargas scored his 14th Copa America goal as Chile and Uruguay drew 1-1 in their Group A clash here on Monday.
The 31-year-old struck in the 26th minute at Arena Pantanal by playing a slick one-two with Ben Brereton before firing a shot into the far corner from a tight angle.
Vargas now sits equal fifth on the tournament’s list of all-time highest scorers and is three goals shy of the record held by Argentine Norberto Mendez.
Uruguay equalized just after the hour mark when Arturo Vidal turned the ball into his own net while under pressure from Luis Suarez after Matias Vecino flicked on a Facundo Torres corner.
It was the Celeste’s first goal in five matches dating back to November last year.
Chile were forced to play the last 12 minutes with only 10 men after Erick Pulgar went off injured when the Roja had already used their allotted substitutions.
“We are satisfied but we know there are things to improve,” Suarez said. “The tournament is long and we’re still fighting to stay alive.”
Chile now have five points from three matches while Uruguay have one point from their opening two fixtures.
