Bauza relieved to avoid defeat for Argentina

Argentina came from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Venezuela on Tuesday. Edgardo Bauza, the team's coach, was relieved to have escaped with a point.

Edgardo Bauza..."We had to turn around a match we never thought we would be 2-0."

Edgardo Bauza was pleased to leave Merida with a point after Argentina came from two goals down to draw 2-2 with Venezuela in Tuesday's World Cup qualifier.

After winning its opening qualifying match, Argentina – which was without Lionel Messi because of a hamstring injury – found itself behind with 53 minutes played as Juanpi and Josef Martinez netted for the host. Lucas Pratto and Nicolas Otamendi ensured a share of the spoils on a disappointing second game in charge for Bauza, who was just pleased to have avoided defeat.

"The effort of the players was good. At least we did not leave empty handed," he said. "We had to turn around a match we never thought we would be 2-0. We took a risk and the effort of the players ensured we claimed a point. One of the attitudes of the squad is never to surrender, of always wanting more."

The Albiceleste returns to action in October when it faces Peru and Paraguay, before a double-header with Colombia and Brazil a month later.