Mexico flat vs. underdog

With top players absent, offense forges few chances.

VINA DEL MAR, CHILE

Mexico and Bolivia — played a lackluster 0-0 draw Friday in the second match of the Copa America, the South American championship.

The result was disappointing for Mexico, which is playing what amounts to its B team but was still a favorite to beat Bolivia, which has not won a match in this tournament since 1997.

Mexico’s best players such as Carlos Vela and Javier Hernandez are being held out for next month’s Gold Cup in the United States.

Bolivia had clear scoring chances, particularly in the first half, while Mexico’s best opportunity came early in the second half when substitute Raul Jimenez headed just wide in the Group A match.

Mexico defender Rafael Marquez, playing his fifth Copa America, went off early in the second half with an apparent injury.

Bolivia had three good chances to take the lead.

Ricardo Pedriel hit the post in the 15th minute. Mexico goalkeeper Jesus Corona made a leaping save in the 42nd on Jhasmani Campos’ rising shot, and seconds later Ronald Raldes headed a ball just wide.

Mexico had the ball more often in the second half, but Bolivia looked better on the counterattack.

Mexico pressed for the last 10 minutes and came close to breaking through several times.

In their next matches Monday, Mexico plays Chile and Bolivia faces Ecuador.

Argentina faces Paraguay on Saturday in Group B, and Brazil — the other heavyweight contender — plays Peru on Sunday in Group C.

SILVIA IZQUIERDO / ASSOCIATED PRESS Mexico’s Raul Jimenez reacts after missing a chance to score Friday against Bolivian goalkeeper Romel Quinonez. Jimenez, who entered as a substitute, knocked a header just wide early in the second half.