Adalberto Penaranda played the first half as Venezuela stepped up their preparations for the Copa America with a 1-1 draw against Ecuador in Miami.

The Hornets forward, who has been included in his nation’s squad for the tournament despite making only two club appearances this season in the FA Cup in January, started on the left of a front three and his side led at the break through Espanyol defender Roberto Rosales’ 38th-minute penalty.

Penaranda made way at the start of the second half, but Venezuela remained in front until the first minute of injury time when former West Ham United and Everton striker Enner Valencia equalised.

Coach Rafael Dudamel’s side continue their build-up for the Copa America, which is being staged in Brazil, against Mexico on Thursday before facing the USA next Sunday.