How did Chelsea wonderkid Kendry Paez fare for Ecuador in his Copa America debut vs Venezuela?

A 2-1 win for Venezuela, Ecuador and teenage star Kendry Paez fell in their Copa America opener on Saturday. The 17-year-old attacking midfielder, who is set to join Premier League giants Chelsea in the summer of 2025, started for his nation and played 79 minutes.

Paez had a top performance for his nation, very nearly opening the scoring in the 21st minute. His first-time effort in the box was saved, though, and the rebound attempt by forward Enner Valencia ended up being their downfall.

The former West Ham United player missed his attempt at the ball, and was sent off after the studs of his boot collided with the chest of the defender.

Paez and co. kept playing, though. The youngster played a role in their opening goal before the halftime whistle, but two second half strikes from La Vinotinto handed the opposition the victory.

Paez himself finished the match with an XG of .38 with one big chance missed. He completed 60% of his dribbles, had 40 touches and completed 15 of 20 total passes.

The Blues will pay $21.3m (€20m/£17.27m) for the 17-year-old next summer when he joins them on a permanent deal from Independiente Del Valle. He has been likened to a young Lionel Messi by many in South America.

Paez and Ecuador are back in action in Copa America on Wednesday against Jamaica. They'll look to earn their first three points of the tournament against the Reggae Boyz.