In California, with the competition being played outside of South America for only the second time in its history, Caicedo started and played the full 90 minutes in Ecuador's loss.

Meanwhile, 17-year-old Kendry Paez, who will join the Blues from Independiente del Valle after his 18th birthday next May, also started the opening match to become the youngest Ecuadorian to play at a Copa America. The teenager featured for 79 minutes before being substituted.

Ecuador had to play the majority of the match with 10 men after experienced forward Enner Valencia was shown a straight red card for a high challenge on Venezuela's Josef Martinez in the 22nd minute.

After going a man down, Venezuela put the pressure on Ecuador with numerous chances, but it was Caicedo's side who took the lead five minutes before the half-time whistle. Their opponents failed to clear a loose ball in the box, allowing Jeremy Sarmiento to fire a shot into the bottom corner.

Caicedo created an opportunity to try and double Ecuador's lead as his well-hit cross into the box took a big deflection and was headed towards goal, which forced goalkeeper Rafael Romo to be alert and punch the ball clear from danger.

Veneuzela found the equaliser in the 64th minute through substitute Jhonder Cadiz, before 10 minutes later Eduard Bello, who also entered the fray after half-time, netted the winner with a rebounded effort.

Up next for Caicedo and Ecuador is Jamaica, who lost their opening game 1-0 to Mexico, in Las Vegas on Wednesday (26 June, 11pm KO UK time).