Venezuela make history with first away win

Venezuela, South America's weakest team, made history on Tuesday by beating Chile 2-0 in Santiago to claim their first away points in a World Cup qualifier since they entered the competition in 1965.

The result was also a stunning turnaround for Chile, coming only four days after they deservedly beat world and European champions France 2-1 in a friendly which marked the international retirement of striker Ivan Zamorano.

Two second half goals settled the game for Venezuela.

Ricardo Paez fired Venezuela ahead in the 57th minute from a rebound after Ruberth Moran broke down the left and his shot was parried by goalkeeper Nelson Tapia.

Five minutes later, Juan Arango broke clear of the Chile defence and slid the ball under Tapia.

Both teams were already out of the running for a place at next year's World Cup.

Venezuela, who last month surprisingly beat Uruguay 2-0 at home, had never won two successive qualifiers before.

They stayed bottom of the group with ten points from 15 games but are now only one point behind Chile, who are ninth.

The match was a sad send-off for Chile coach Pedro Garcia, who has announced his resignation after only six months in charge.

During the second half, a disillusioned crowd jeered Chile and chanted 'ole' as Venezuela passed the ball around.