Peru edge Haiti 1-0 in Copa America

Paolo Guerrero scored with a diving header in the 60th minute to give Peru a 1-0 win against Haiti in the Copa America Centenario football tournament Group B opener at the CenturyLink Field stadium.

Guerrero, the tournament's highest goal scorer in 2011 and 2015, scored his 11th goal in the tournament and 27th of his career, passing Teofilo Cubillas to become Peru's all-time leading scorer here on Saturday. Guerrero has 11 of Peru's last 20 goals in Copa America matches.

Peru are two-time Copa America champions. Haiti made their tournament debut in Saturday's match.

Peru looked the stronger and more opportunistic team from the start with several forays into the Haiti goal area. But Haiti had an opportunity through a corner kick, the ball landing at the feet of Wilde-Donald Guerrier in the 26th minute, though he could not get a quality touch.

Flores' shot hit the post in the 45th minute, Peru's best chance before halftime. He also misfired in the 51st minute, missing an open net far post.

Renzo Revoredo's right-footed toe poke in front of the goal was saved by Haiti's Johnny Placide in the 59th minute, keeping the game goal-less. Guerrero's goal came mere moments later.

Haiti got close in the 75th minute with chances to equalise, but Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese was up to the task.

Group B action continues Wednesday when Peru face Ecuador in Glendale, Arizona, and Haiti meet Brazil in Orlando.

--IANS

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