Host nation Ecuador staged a spirited comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Uruguay in the opening match of the 2024 Women’s Copa América, played Friday at the Complejo Independiente del Valle in Quito.

Uruguay took control early when Belén Aquino fired home from distance in the 11th minute, putting the visitors ahead. The advantage doubled shortly after halftime, when Pamela González converted a penalty in the 53rd minute after Danna Pesantez fouled Pilar González inside the box.

Down 2-0, Ecuador clawed their way back into the contest. A mishap by Uruguay defender Yannel Correa, who inadvertently turned the ball into her own net, gave Ecuador hope. Just minutes later, substitute Emily Rosa Arias Espinales made an immediate impact, slotting a composed low finish in the 78th minute to level the score.

Ecuador pressed hard for a late winner, dominating possession and registering six shots on target—double that of Uruguay. But Uruguayan goalkeeper Agustina Sánchez came up big in the closing stages, denying efforts from Nayely Bolaños and Karen Flores to preserve the draw.

Despite the comeback, Ecuador will feel they missed an opportunity to take all three points, having also come close through Stefany Cedeño and Milagro Barahona.

Looking ahead, Ecuador will face Peru next on Tuesday, while Uruguay prepares for a challenging clash with Argentina. Chile, the final team in Group A, will make their tournament debut against Peru on Saturday.

Group B features Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Venezuela, with defending champions Brazil heavily favored to lift the trophy again, having claimed it a record eight times.

Both Ecuador and Uruguay are aiming to improve on their group-stage exits from the 2022 edition. The 10th Women’s Copa América runs until August 2, with teams competing for continental glory and spots in future international tournaments.