The MetroStars lost control of the Merconorte CupÆs Group B with a 2-1 loss in Caracas, Venezuela, to Deportivo Italchacao in their penultimate first-round game. The Venezuelan club moves into first place on 12 points. The last Group B game pits the MetroStars against Millonarios — both on nine points — in Giants Stadium Oct. 31. A winner of that game — because either would have a better goal difference than the Venezuelans — will qualify for the second round. Defender Daniel Diez scored both Deportivo Italchacao goals, including an 89th-minute gamewinner. The MetroStarsÆ goal came on an own goal in the 58th minute off a deflected Daniel Hernandez shot. Diez tied the game five minutes later. He headed home a corner kick for the winning goal. MetrosÆ keeper Tim Howard saved a 50th-minute penalty kick granted for a Steve Jolley foul.