The Copa America 2007 started Tuesday with all eyes on host nation Venezuela. Matching up against Bolivia in Group A, Venezuela failed to hold onto two leads en route to a 2-2 draw.
After Venezuela took a 1-0 lead on a Giancarlo Maldonado goal in the 21st minute, Bolivia equalized through a Venezuela own goal to tie the game at 1-1. The goal was originally given to Bolivia forward and MLS star Jaime Moreno (D.C. United), but was later changed to the own goal.
In the second half, Venezuela took the lead back on a goal by Ricardo David Paez in the 56th minute. But once again, Bolivia scored the equalizer, this time on a Juan Carlos Arce goal in the 84th minute.
Peru and Paraguay faced off in the day's other game where Peru dominated the match, winning 3-0. Miguel Villalta started things off hitting the back of the net in the 27th minute. He was followed by Juan Carlos Marino in the 69th minute and by Jose Paolo Guerrero in the 88th minute.
Bolivia will take on Uruguay in its next match on Saturday at 4:05 p.m. ET while the same day, Venezuela will take on Peru at 6:20 p.m. ET.
The tournament will continue Wednesday with Group B matches as Ecuador will take on Chile at 6:35 p.m. ET and defending champion Brazil will face Mexico at 8:50 p.m. ET. Brazil defeated Mexico 4-0 in the quarterfinals of Copa America 2004 en route to its seventh South American championship.
Ben Masur is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or it clubs.
