Mexico vs. Jamaica: Score and Reaction from 2016 Copa America

Mexico scored two goals and put on a stellar passing performance Thursday to defeat Jamaica 2-0 at the Rose Bowl in Copa America Group C play and secure a spot in the knockout round.

SportsCenter took to Twitter after the match:

ESPN's Tommy Smyth shared his thoughts on Mexico's victory:

It was clear from the opening whistle that Mexico's game plan was to methodically pick Jamaica apart. El Tri had possession of the ball for 67 percent of the first half, though they got only two shots off.

Jamaica, meanwhile, got five first-half shots off, but only one was on target. That was despite holding on to the ball for only 33 percent of the half.

Mexico's lone shot on goal in the first 45 minutes proved to be crucial. Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez headed in the game's opening score in the 18th minute to give Mexico the lead, via Univision:

Chicharito moved closer to the top of Mexico's all-time scoring list with his 45th international goal, per SportsCenter:

That, in essence, was all Mexico needed Thursday. The Mexicans continued to dictate the pace of the game with their passing. Despite making 11 fouls, Mexico didn't pick up any cards and played a relatively clean game.

Jamaica accumulated only five more shots for the rest of the game, while Mexico took a total of 18 shots.

Oribe Peralta provided the dagger with a goal in the 81st minute on his first shot of the game after coming off the bench.

ESPN's Max Bretos reacted to Mexico's two-goal lead:

"

Oribe Peralta comes on, first touch of the game starts counter, 2nd touch to score.. Thats efficient. #CopaAmerica

— Maximiliano Bretos (@mbretosESPN) June 10, 2016"

That was all Mexico needed to advance to the quarterfinals after a second straight solid performance in the group stage.

Mexico looks like a strong contender heading into the knockout round. Argentina might be the favorite in the tournament, but Mexico isn't far behind. El Tri can afford to rest players against Venezuela on Monday, but they may also look to carry momentum into the knockout round with a third consecutive victory.