Ecuador secured their spot in the Copa America quarter-finals with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Mexico on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Venezuela clinched the top spot in Group B with a commanding 3-0 victory over Jamaica.
Ecuador only needed a draw against Mexico in Glendale, Arizona to advance on goal difference.
They endured a tense finale as Mexico launched numerous attacks in the closing stages.
Ecuador goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez made a crucial save from Johan Vasquez in the 71st minute, shortly after Santiago Gimenez hit the post with a close-range effort.
In a dramatic moment deep into added time, referee Mario Escobar initially awarded Mexico a penalty after Felix Torres appeared to foul Guillermo Martinez in the area.
However, VAR intervened, showing Torres had touched the ball in his challenge, leading to the penalty being overturned.
The decision left the Mexican-dominated crowd jubilant momentarily before their celebrations were dashed.
Ecuador will now face Group A winners Argentina in the quarter-finals in Houston on Thursday.
Venezuela, who had already secured their quarter-final berth with wins over Ecuador and Mexico, maintained their perfect record against Jamaica.
Eduard Bello opened the scoring with a header in the 49th minute, connecting perfectly with Jon Aramburu’s cross.
Salomon Rondon doubled Venezuela’s lead on 56 minutes, finishing calmly past Jahmali Waite after a precise through ball from Yangel Herrera. Eric Ramirez sealed the victory in the 85th minute, confidently slotting home a pass from Kervin Andrade.
Next, Venezuela will meet Group A runners-up Canada in Arlington on Friday as they aim for a place in the semi-finals.
