For the second time in quick succession, Athletic were blown away in a cup final, this time by Barcelona in the Copa del Rey at the Vicente Calderon. This was Athletic 63rd game of the season, and it showed. Not that Barcelona haven't also had a lot of games, but their possession-based game doesn't place quite the same physical demands on players as Marcelo Bielsa's high-tempo pressing game. At the end of the first year of the Bielsa project, the players, quite frankly, look knackered. With Messi at his unplayable best and Iniesta pulling the strings, Barcelona took control early with Pedro beating Gorka Iraizoz at his near post. Twenty minutes later, Messi had doubled the lead and Pedro bagged a second - game over. Even the introduction of Euroballs favourite Toquero could get Athletic back into it.
So Pep Guardiola leaves with 14 trophies - from 19 contested - in his four years as Barcelona manager. Not bad, really. He leaves for a sabbatical and Tito Vilanova has the task of taking the side forward. Tough gig.
Torino and Pescara are promoted to Serie A, Torino as champions. They drew with AlbinoLeffe while Pescara were beating Nocerina. With the better head-to-head record, Torino finish top. It's Sassuolo against Sampdoria and Hellas Verona v Varese in the play-offs. Deportivo La Coruna are promoted to the Primera Division in Spain, as champions, after coming from behind to beat Huesca. They're four clear of Celta Vigo with a game to go. Celta need a point in the last game to seal second, Valladolid's draw with Alcorcon giving them a bit of breathing space.
We're previously waxed lyrical about our love of the penalty shoot-out, and this week has seen the venerable institution make headlines again. First, Sepp Blatter wished to find a better way of resolving drawn games and then players on two continents show why that's a misguided notion. Two quarter-finals in the Copa Libertadores went to spot-kicks. Santos matched Vélez Sarsfield's 1-0 thanks to Alan Kardec before prevailing 4-2 on penalties while Universidad de Chile and Libertad drew 1-1 for the second time in the tie. La U won the shoot-out 5-2 to progress. It looked like Boca Juniors and Fluminense would go the same way as Flu led the second leg 1-0 heading into the dying moments, but Santiago Silva grabbed a stoppage time equaliser to send Boca through 2-1. In the final tie, Paulinho's goal was enough for a 1-0 aggregate win. Boca play La U in the semi-finals while the other tie is an all-Brazilian affair with Santos at home in the first leg to Corinthians.
The League 1 play-off final also went to penalties after a drab 0-0. Sheffield United's well-documented issues with forwards necessitated a change of approach and their flooding of the midfield blunted Huddersfield and the two sides cancelled each other out. Town missed their first three penalties, but in Alex Smithies they have a goalkeeper who is something of a 12-yard specialist. He saved two of United's first three before the players finally found their shooting boots. At 2-2 after five each, it went to sudden death, eventually coming down to the goalkeepers against one another with the 11th penalties. Smithies tucked his away, but Steve Simonsen sent his into the stands and Town are promoted. In League 2, Crewe were comfortable winners against Cheltenham.
Back in domestic action, three assists from Juan Roman Riquelme helped Boca to a 3-0 win over Godoy Cruz and, combined with Tigre's draw with Atlético Rafaela, opens up a three-point lead at the top with three games to go. Reigning Brazilian champions Corinthians lost their second game of the season and remain without a point. Atlético Mineiro were their conquerors, one of three sides with 2-0 records - Vasco da Gama and Botafogo the others. Colo Colo won their Chilean Apertura quarter-final against Deportes Iquique 5-4. A 3-3 draw on Thursday was followed by a 2-1 win on Saturday, Colo hanging on with ten men for the last ten minutes. Universidad Catolica are out, well beaten by Union Espanola, and O'Higgins progress after two wins over Union La Calera. Universidad de Chile are 2-0 up in their tie against Cobreloa ahead of the return in the small hours of Tuesday morning. Universidad Cesar Vallejo are Peruvian champions. They got the point they needed in a 0-0 draw with Universidad San Martin which rendered Real Atlético's 1-0 over Union Comercio academic. Defensor Sporting are Uruguayan champions with a round of fixtures remaining. A 3-0 win over El Tanque Sisley leaves them four points clear of Liverpool - 3-1 winners against Cerrito - with a game remaining. All done in the Colombian regular season and the top eight are now split into two groups of four, the winners of which will contest the final. Deportes Tolima finished top, seven clear of the field, and they're in group A and red-hot favourites.
In the international friendlies, an Eren Derdiyok hat-trick helped Switzerland beat Germany 5-3. Without their Bayern players, Germany were not anywhere near their best and this isn't representative of their chances in the Euros. The Dutch were beaten at home by Bulgaria, Joris Mathijsen taken off injured early on as well. The form of both Robin van Persie and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar has seen Bert van Marwijk try to play them together, going away from the 4-2-3-1 that served them so well previously.
And that'll do us for now. The Euros are just eleven days away now.
The home of football sarcasm
Showing posts with label Copa Libertadores. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Copa Libertadores. Show all posts
Monday, 28 May 2012
Friday, 11 May 2012
Copa Libertadores - round of 16
We've highlighted previously the importance of home advantage in the Copa Libertadores. With the potential for vast distances between clubs and the extreme altitude in many parts mean that a failure to grasp those factors that lie in your favour often spell doom.
La Paz and Quito are two cities that lend themselves to this. Bolívar, of the former, and Deportivo Quito both had home games in the first leg of the round of 16 against fancied runners. Bolívar won 2-1 against Santos, Jhasmani Campos with the winner after Maranhão had equalised an early Rafael own goal. Would that away goal prove crucial? Depor, meanwhile, thumped the quite excellent Universidad de Chile to the tune of 4-1, Gustavo Alustiza bagging two of them. Surely the away goal here was even less relevant?
It became irrelevant, but not in that way. Depor and Bolívar were both brought down to earth at sea level, and in emphatic style. Santos were back on terms with Bolívar within six minutes, Elano with the goal, and more followed at regular intervals. A Neymar penalty was quickly followed by strikes from Ganso and Alan Kardec and it was five by half-time as Juan Valverde turned one into his own net. After the break, Elano and Ganso both got seconds and Borges wrapped up an astonishing 8-0 win sending Santos through 9-2 on aggregate. In Santiago, Universidad weren't as quick oout of the blocks, but by half-time had drawn the tie level, La U ahead by that away goal. In the space of fifteen first-half minutes, Juan Fernandez had nipped in for two and Marcelo Diaz made it 3-0. After the break, Eugenio Mena gave La U a bit of breathing space before a late brace from Ángelo Henríquez completed a 6-0 rout and a 7-4 aggregate win.
Emelec had failed to make the mnost of their home leg against Corinthians with a 0-0 draw. In the return, the Brazilians were comfortable 3-0 winners. Unión Española also flopped at home, losing 3-2 to Boca Juniors after being beaten 2-1 in La Bombonera. It was the same story for Atlético Nacional who lost 1-0 at home to Vélez Sarsfield before a draw in Buenos Aries saw Vélez through. In the all-Brazilian tie, Inter and Flu drew 0-0 in the first leg before Flu won at home 2-1 after going a goal down early on. Leandro Damião put Inter in front, but Leandro Euzébio equalised moments later. Fred's goal late in the first half proved enough for Flu. Libertad had the longest trip, all the way up to Mexico and Cruz Azul, but they returned from there with a 1-1 draw. Back in Ascunción, they completed a 2-0 win to progress.
In the final tie, both Lanús and Vasco da Gama won at home. Both won 2-1, Tefilo Gutierrez's late goal in the second leg sending the tie to extra time and, ultimately, penalties. There, Lanús striker Silvio Roméro was the only one to miss, crashing his 12-yarder off the bar, and Vasco progress.
So to the quarter-finals then which get underway next Tuesday. It's a Brazil-dominated affair, half the sides coming from the continent's largest country. There are two Argentine sides while the only sides from outside those two countries meet each other. Here's how they line up:
Fluminense x Boca Juniors
Corinthians x Vasco da Gama
Universidad de Chile x Libertad
Santos x Vélez Sarsfield
La Paz and Quito are two cities that lend themselves to this. Bolívar, of the former, and Deportivo Quito both had home games in the first leg of the round of 16 against fancied runners. Bolívar won 2-1 against Santos, Jhasmani Campos with the winner after Maranhão had equalised an early Rafael own goal. Would that away goal prove crucial? Depor, meanwhile, thumped the quite excellent Universidad de Chile to the tune of 4-1, Gustavo Alustiza bagging two of them. Surely the away goal here was even less relevant?
It became irrelevant, but not in that way. Depor and Bolívar were both brought down to earth at sea level, and in emphatic style. Santos were back on terms with Bolívar within six minutes, Elano with the goal, and more followed at regular intervals. A Neymar penalty was quickly followed by strikes from Ganso and Alan Kardec and it was five by half-time as Juan Valverde turned one into his own net. After the break, Elano and Ganso both got seconds and Borges wrapped up an astonishing 8-0 win sending Santos through 9-2 on aggregate. In Santiago, Universidad weren't as quick oout of the blocks, but by half-time had drawn the tie level, La U ahead by that away goal. In the space of fifteen first-half minutes, Juan Fernandez had nipped in for two and Marcelo Diaz made it 3-0. After the break, Eugenio Mena gave La U a bit of breathing space before a late brace from Ángelo Henríquez completed a 6-0 rout and a 7-4 aggregate win.
Emelec had failed to make the mnost of their home leg against Corinthians with a 0-0 draw. In the return, the Brazilians were comfortable 3-0 winners. Unión Española also flopped at home, losing 3-2 to Boca Juniors after being beaten 2-1 in La Bombonera. It was the same story for Atlético Nacional who lost 1-0 at home to Vélez Sarsfield before a draw in Buenos Aries saw Vélez through. In the all-Brazilian tie, Inter and Flu drew 0-0 in the first leg before Flu won at home 2-1 after going a goal down early on. Leandro Damião put Inter in front, but Leandro Euzébio equalised moments later. Fred's goal late in the first half proved enough for Flu. Libertad had the longest trip, all the way up to Mexico and Cruz Azul, but they returned from there with a 1-1 draw. Back in Ascunción, they completed a 2-0 win to progress.
In the final tie, both Lanús and Vasco da Gama won at home. Both won 2-1, Tefilo Gutierrez's late goal in the second leg sending the tie to extra time and, ultimately, penalties. There, Lanús striker Silvio Roméro was the only one to miss, crashing his 12-yarder off the bar, and Vasco progress.
So to the quarter-finals then which get underway next Tuesday. It's a Brazil-dominated affair, half the sides coming from the continent's largest country. There are two Argentine sides while the only sides from outside those two countries meet each other. Here's how they line up:
Fluminense x Boca Juniors
Corinthians x Vasco da Gama
Universidad de Chile x Libertad
Santos x Vélez Sarsfield
Friday, 20 April 2012
Copa Libertadores heads to the knockout rounds
While Europe was in the grip of the Champions League semi-finals this week, South America's premier club competition finally reached the end of it's tortuous group stage.
Four of the eight groups were settled quite early on with two teams dominating throughout. Fluminense and Boca Juniors dominated Group 4 with Flu only losing in gameweek five, to Boca. The Argentine champions had a slow start with a draw against Zamora in Venezuela and a loss to Flu, but then won their final four games to secure second place behind the Brazilians. Back-to-back wins over Arsenal de Sarandi in the middle two weeks made all the difference both to Arsenal and to Boca. Zamora's only point came from that first game.
Libertad and Vasco da Gama dominated Group 5 in similar fashion ahead of Nacional and Alianza Lima and Group 6 was even more divided with Nacional Ascunsión and Deportivo Táchira only mustering one win between them. Corinthians and Cruz Azul progressed unruffled. And in Group 8 Universidad de Chile picked up their Copa Sudamericana-winning form to top the group from Atlético Nacional. Godoy Cruz and Peñarol won a game each.
The big drama came in Group 1 where Flamengo were dumped out in dramatic fashion. Lanús had secured top spot before the final round of matches, but the other three were all in with a shout. Fla had to win - they did, 3-0 against Lanús - to have a hope. Emelec and Olimpia were tied at 2-2 when the final whistle went at the Engenhão, but in stoppage time in Ascunsión, José Quinonez grabbed a winner for Emelec that sent them through instead. Ronaldinho's team were out.
Bolívar had to win on the final day of Group 3 to join Unión Española in the knockout stages and they did, 3-0 over Universidad Catolica. That rendered Junior's win over Unión academic. Vélez Sarsfield dominated Group 7 with a battle on between Deportivo Quito and Defensor Sporting to join them. Fortunately for Depor, they were playing group whipping boys Guadalajara on the final day and duly whipped them 5-0 which meant Defensor's win over Vélez counted for nothing.
Santos walked Group 1 and were joined by Internacional after a nervy final round. Needing a win to be certain of qualifying, Inter lose 1-0 in Peru to Juan Aurich. Fortunately for them, Santos did them a favour by beating Bolivians The Strongest in São Paulo by two goals to nil. Inter snuck through by a point.
And so to knockout football where no Uruguayan side appears for what feels like the first time in ages.
Corinthians take on Emelec where the altitude of Quito could be vital. Both sides will be looking for big home wins, Emelec to take advantage of the altitude and Corinthians to negate it's effect.
Fluminense and Internacional meet in an all-Brazilian tie whiole Brazilian champions Santos have to take on Bolívar and La Paz's rarefied atmosphere. Universidad de Chile, probably the most exciting team in world football at the moment, drew Deportivo Quito while Libertad have the long trip to Mexico to take on Cruz Azul. Boca Juniors play Unión Española, Lanús take on the might of Vasco da Gama and Atlético Nacional, Colombia's only representative in the last 16 with an attack led by group stage top-scorer Dorlan Pabón, will play Vélez Sarsfield.
The knockout round starts on March 30 and, as ever, it should be cracking.
Four of the eight groups were settled quite early on with two teams dominating throughout. Fluminense and Boca Juniors dominated Group 4 with Flu only losing in gameweek five, to Boca. The Argentine champions had a slow start with a draw against Zamora in Venezuela and a loss to Flu, but then won their final four games to secure second place behind the Brazilians. Back-to-back wins over Arsenal de Sarandi in the middle two weeks made all the difference both to Arsenal and to Boca. Zamora's only point came from that first game.
Libertad and Vasco da Gama dominated Group 5 in similar fashion ahead of Nacional and Alianza Lima and Group 6 was even more divided with Nacional Ascunsión and Deportivo Táchira only mustering one win between them. Corinthians and Cruz Azul progressed unruffled. And in Group 8 Universidad de Chile picked up their Copa Sudamericana-winning form to top the group from Atlético Nacional. Godoy Cruz and Peñarol won a game each.
The big drama came in Group 1 where Flamengo were dumped out in dramatic fashion. Lanús had secured top spot before the final round of matches, but the other three were all in with a shout. Fla had to win - they did, 3-0 against Lanús - to have a hope. Emelec and Olimpia were tied at 2-2 when the final whistle went at the Engenhão, but in stoppage time in Ascunsión, José Quinonez grabbed a winner for Emelec that sent them through instead. Ronaldinho's team were out.
Bolívar had to win on the final day of Group 3 to join Unión Española in the knockout stages and they did, 3-0 over Universidad Catolica. That rendered Junior's win over Unión academic. Vélez Sarsfield dominated Group 7 with a battle on between Deportivo Quito and Defensor Sporting to join them. Fortunately for Depor, they were playing group whipping boys Guadalajara on the final day and duly whipped them 5-0 which meant Defensor's win over Vélez counted for nothing.
Santos walked Group 1 and were joined by Internacional after a nervy final round. Needing a win to be certain of qualifying, Inter lose 1-0 in Peru to Juan Aurich. Fortunately for them, Santos did them a favour by beating Bolivians The Strongest in São Paulo by two goals to nil. Inter snuck through by a point.
And so to knockout football where no Uruguayan side appears for what feels like the first time in ages.
Corinthians take on Emelec where the altitude of Quito could be vital. Both sides will be looking for big home wins, Emelec to take advantage of the altitude and Corinthians to negate it's effect.
Fluminense and Internacional meet in an all-Brazilian tie whiole Brazilian champions Santos have to take on Bolívar and La Paz's rarefied atmosphere. Universidad de Chile, probably the most exciting team in world football at the moment, drew Deportivo Quito while Libertad have the long trip to Mexico to take on Cruz Azul. Boca Juniors play Unión Española, Lanús take on the might of Vasco da Gama and Atlético Nacional, Colombia's only representative in the last 16 with an attack led by group stage top-scorer Dorlan Pabón, will play Vélez Sarsfield.
The knockout round starts on March 30 and, as ever, it should be cracking.
Friday, 28 August 2009
Looking for your Brasileiro update?
With the continued coverage of everything Brazil and South America whilst the summer was on it filled a hole here at Euroballs. Now we're back underway in Europe the team here got the feeling that the South American updates were distracting from the main purpose and coverage of the major European leagues so we've done something about it and set up a new site.
For all your Campeonato Brasileiro Serié A updates, plus the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana updates then please visit the new site at CONMEBalls where we continue from where we left off on here.
On there shortly, a look back at the catch up games in Brazil and a review of this weeks action in the Copa Nissan Sudamericana.
For all your Campeonato Brasileiro Serié A updates, plus the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana updates then please visit the new site at CONMEBalls where we continue from where we left off on here.
On there shortly, a look back at the catch up games in Brazil and a review of this weeks action in the Copa Nissan Sudamericana.
Thursday, 9 July 2009
Copa Libertadores Final 1st Leg
Estudiantes 0-0 Cruzeiro
Lots of tickertape and fireworks in La Plata, it was suddenly 1978 all over again for the first leg of the final in the 50th edition of the Copa Libertadores. It will be Cruzeiro who go back to Belo Horizonte next week as favourites after a goalless draw last night.
Seba Veron stung Fabio's hands with a super free kick in the first half and the keeper came to the rescue shortly after with another fine save. And Veron again forced Fabio into acrobatics right on half time. Leonardo Silva came close for Cruzeiro with 17 minutes to go but could Kléber's shocking miss with 11 minutes to go come back and bite the Brazilians on the arse next week. Juan Salgueiro had the last chance for the home side but he put his shot across the face of the goal.
Cruzeiro though will be thankful to goalkeeper Fabio for keeping them in the game. Just to point out the rules are different in the final. Away goals do not count and if the teams are level at the end of 90 minutes next week then there will, unlike the previous rounds, be extra time before any penalty competition.
The next leg takes place on Wednesday night in Belo Horizonte.
Lots of tickertape and fireworks in La Plata, it was suddenly 1978 all over again for the first leg of the final in the 50th edition of the Copa Libertadores. It will be Cruzeiro who go back to Belo Horizonte next week as favourites after a goalless draw last night.
Seba Veron stung Fabio's hands with a super free kick in the first half and the keeper came to the rescue shortly after with another fine save. And Veron again forced Fabio into acrobatics right on half time. Leonardo Silva came close for Cruzeiro with 17 minutes to go but could Kléber's shocking miss with 11 minutes to go come back and bite the Brazilians on the arse next week. Juan Salgueiro had the last chance for the home side but he put his shot across the face of the goal.
Cruzeiro though will be thankful to goalkeeper Fabio for keeping them in the game. Just to point out the rules are different in the final. Away goals do not count and if the teams are level at the end of 90 minutes next week then there will, unlike the previous rounds, be extra time before any penalty competition.
The next leg takes place on Wednesday night in Belo Horizonte.
Friday, 3 July 2009
Copa Libertadores Semi Final 2nd Leg
Nacional 1-2 Estudiantes
Estudiantes win 6-0 on points
Grêmio 2-2 Cruzeiro
Cruzeiro win 4-1 on points
Estuadiantes qualified for their first Copa Libertadores final since 1971 after seeing off the challenge of Nacional in the Estadio Centernario in Montevideo. Mauro Boselli put the visitors two ahead on aggregate when he struck in the 53rd minute to also provide a valuable away goal. Nacional equalised 14 minutes from time when Alexander Medina found the back of the net but it was all in vain as Boselli struck again in injury time to ensure victory for the team from La Plata.
In the other semi final in Porto Alegre, Cruzeiro qualified for their first final since 1997 after a 2-2 draw with Grêmio. Like the Copa do Brasil the previous night in the same city the tie was over and done with by half time after Wellington Paulista's two goals in two minutes sent the visitors into half time four goals ahead on aggregate. The fight back came from Grêmio, first Réver pulled goal back but the mountain then got bigger when Adilson was sent off. Souza levelled things up on the night with 15 minutes to go but it wasn't enough to stop Cruzeiro advancing to the final
The first leg of the final takes place in La Plata next week
.
Estudiantes win 6-0 on points
Grêmio 2-2 Cruzeiro
Cruzeiro win 4-1 on points
Estuadiantes qualified for their first Copa Libertadores final since 1971 after seeing off the challenge of Nacional in the Estadio Centernario in Montevideo. Mauro Boselli put the visitors two ahead on aggregate when he struck in the 53rd minute to also provide a valuable away goal. Nacional equalised 14 minutes from time when Alexander Medina found the back of the net but it was all in vain as Boselli struck again in injury time to ensure victory for the team from La Plata.
In the other semi final in Porto Alegre, Cruzeiro qualified for their first final since 1997 after a 2-2 draw with Grêmio. Like the Copa do Brasil the previous night in the same city the tie was over and done with by half time after Wellington Paulista's two goals in two minutes sent the visitors into half time four goals ahead on aggregate. The fight back came from Grêmio, first Réver pulled goal back but the mountain then got bigger when Adilson was sent off. Souza levelled things up on the night with 15 minutes to go but it wasn't enough to stop Cruzeiro advancing to the final
The first leg of the final takes place in La Plata next week
.
Friday, 26 June 2009
Copa Libertadores Semi Final 1st Leg
Cruzeiro 3-1 Grêmio
Estudiantes 1-0 Nacional
After withstanding some early pressure at the Mineirão, Cruzeiro took a decisive 2 goal lead into the second leg next week. Wellington Paulista put the hosts ahead 7 minutes before half time and Wagner's deflected strike 2 minutes into the second half doubled the advantage. Fabinho was left totally unmarked to head in on 67 minutes and this looked to have put the tie safe but Grêmio didn't give up and got what could be a vital away goal 11 minutes from time when Souza curled home a free kick from 25 yards out. It gives Grêmio a fighting chance in next week's second leg.
Meanwhile in La Plata, Estudiantes will take a narrow one goal lead back over the River Plate for the second leg after Diego Galván's stike after 14 minutes gave them a 1-0 victory over Nacional. It's all to play for in Montevideo as a final berth awaits.
The second legs take place next week.
Estudiantes 1-0 Nacional
After withstanding some early pressure at the Mineirão, Cruzeiro took a decisive 2 goal lead into the second leg next week. Wellington Paulista put the hosts ahead 7 minutes before half time and Wagner's deflected strike 2 minutes into the second half doubled the advantage. Fabinho was left totally unmarked to head in on 67 minutes and this looked to have put the tie safe but Grêmio didn't give up and got what could be a vital away goal 11 minutes from time when Souza curled home a free kick from 25 yards out. It gives Grêmio a fighting chance in next week's second leg.
Meanwhile in La Plata, Estudiantes will take a narrow one goal lead back over the River Plate for the second leg after Diego Galván's stike after 14 minutes gave them a 1-0 victory over Nacional. It's all to play for in Montevideo as a final berth awaits.
The second legs take place next week.
Saturday, 20 June 2009
Copa Libertadores Quarter Final 2nd Legs
Nacional 0-0 Palmeiras
Nacional 2−2 Palmeiras on points. Nacional and Palmeiras tied on goal difference and goals scored. Nacional advances on away goals.
Grêmio 0-0 Caracas FC
Grêmio 2−2 Caracas on points. Grêmio and Caracas tied on goal difference and goals scored. Grêmio advances on away goals.
Estudiantes 1-0 Defensor Sporting
Estudiantes win 6-0 on points
São Paulo 0-2 Cruzeiro
Cruzeiro win 6-0 on points
Palmeiras were the big casualties in the last 8 as they were dumped out of the competition by Nacional in Montevideo on Wednesday night. No goals at the Centenario was enough to see the hosts through on away goals. It leds to Palmeiras fans setting up a petition for the removal of coach Wanderley Luxemburgo. In Porto Alegre, Grêmio overcame the challenge of surprise package Caracas to reach the semi finals. Again no goals in the game and Grêmio advanced courtesy of the Fábio Santos first leg strike.
Estudiantes remained the only Argentinian side in the competition after seeing off Defensor Sporting in La Plata. After winning the first game in Montevideo a 13th minute strike from Luis Benítez saw them claim victory and progession into the semi finals. Meanwhile São Paulo's recent run of poor form continued as they were dispatched from the competition by Cruzeiro. São Paulo didn't help themselves by having Eduardo Costa sent off before half time and then André Dias dismissed 10 minutes before time. Henrique put Cruzeiro ahead with a 30 yarder before Kléber wrapped things up from the spot 9 minutes before time.
Under the rules of the competition now, the two Brazilian clubs left in the competition must now meet at the semi final stage and Grêmio being the number one ranked team after the qualifiers will travel to Cruzeiro in the first leg and in the other semi final it's a battle of the River Plate as Estudiantes will travel to Nacional in the first leg.
Nacional 2−2 Palmeiras on points. Nacional and Palmeiras tied on goal difference and goals scored. Nacional advances on away goals.
Grêmio 0-0 Caracas FC
Grêmio 2−2 Caracas on points. Grêmio and Caracas tied on goal difference and goals scored. Grêmio advances on away goals.
Estudiantes 1-0 Defensor Sporting
Estudiantes win 6-0 on points
São Paulo 0-2 Cruzeiro
Cruzeiro win 6-0 on points
Palmeiras were the big casualties in the last 8 as they were dumped out of the competition by Nacional in Montevideo on Wednesday night. No goals at the Centenario was enough to see the hosts through on away goals. It leds to Palmeiras fans setting up a petition for the removal of coach Wanderley Luxemburgo. In Porto Alegre, Grêmio overcame the challenge of surprise package Caracas to reach the semi finals. Again no goals in the game and Grêmio advanced courtesy of the Fábio Santos first leg strike.
Estudiantes remained the only Argentinian side in the competition after seeing off Defensor Sporting in La Plata. After winning the first game in Montevideo a 13th minute strike from Luis Benítez saw them claim victory and progession into the semi finals. Meanwhile São Paulo's recent run of poor form continued as they were dispatched from the competition by Cruzeiro. São Paulo didn't help themselves by having Eduardo Costa sent off before half time and then André Dias dismissed 10 minutes before time. Henrique put Cruzeiro ahead with a 30 yarder before Kléber wrapped things up from the spot 9 minutes before time.
Under the rules of the competition now, the two Brazilian clubs left in the competition must now meet at the semi final stage and Grêmio being the number one ranked team after the qualifiers will travel to Cruzeiro in the first leg and in the other semi final it's a battle of the River Plate as Estudiantes will travel to Nacional in the first leg.
Friday, 29 May 2009
Copa Libertadores Quarter Final 1st Legs
FC Caracas 1-1 Grêmio
Cruzeiro 2-1 São Paulo
Cruzeiro 2-1 São Paulo
Defensor Sporting 0-1 Estudiantes
Palmeiras 1-1 Nacional
Caracas and Grêmio go into next weeks second leg all square after a 1-1 draw at the Estadio Olímpico. Caracas got the perfect start when Gabriel Cichero headed the hosts ahead with 2 minutes on the clock. Grêmio hit back and went close twice before Fabio Santos was left unmarked at the back post and he headed home to level things up. Brazilian Champions São Paulo's poor run continued at the Mineirão as they were beaten by Cruzeiro. Leonardo Silva heading the home side ahead from a corner on the stroke of half time. São Paulo levelled 11 minutes into the second half after Cruzeiro keeper Fabio fumbled a shot and Washington was on hand to turn sharply and level things. Kléber was then denied a penalty but in the 65th minute a shot from substitute Ze Carlos was too hot for Denis to handle in the São Paulo goal and Cruzeiro took a one goal lead into the second leg.
Palmeiras 1-1 Nacional
Caracas and Grêmio go into next weeks second leg all square after a 1-1 draw at the Estadio Olímpico. Caracas got the perfect start when Gabriel Cichero headed the hosts ahead with 2 minutes on the clock. Grêmio hit back and went close twice before Fabio Santos was left unmarked at the back post and he headed home to level things up. Brazilian Champions São Paulo's poor run continued at the Mineirão as they were beaten by Cruzeiro. Leonardo Silva heading the home side ahead from a corner on the stroke of half time. São Paulo levelled 11 minutes into the second half after Cruzeiro keeper Fabio fumbled a shot and Washington was on hand to turn sharply and level things. Kléber was then denied a penalty but in the 65th minute a shot from substitute Ze Carlos was too hot for Denis to handle in the São Paulo goal and Cruzeiro took a one goal lead into the second leg.
A 12th minute goal from Leandro Desábato was enough to give Estudiantes victory over Defensor Sporting in the first game in Montevideo on Thursday night. Both teams finished with 10 players when Jorge Curbelo of Defensor and Marcos Angeleri were sent off in the 25th minutes after both appearing to kick out at each other. Both will now miss the return legs in La Plata next week. It finished all square as Palmeiras and Nacional met at the Palestra Itália. Diego Souza put the hosts ahead in the 56th minute after a pretty poor effort from Nacional keeper Sebastian Coates but the hosts were rocked when Santiago Garcia was left unmarked in the box and he equalised 9 minutes from time. Nacional will though be without Roberto Brum in the second leg after he was dismissed for a second bookable offence in injury time.
Friday, 15 May 2009
Copa Libertadores Last 16 Second Legs
First of all I need to point out the following....these are the tie-breakers for the Copa Libertadores up to the final. Tie-breaking rules (based on Second Stage games): 1st points; 2nd goal difference; 3rd goals scored; 4th away-goals. Then it's penalties if none of that seperates anything and no extra time. Basically, you win the game you get 3 points for a win, 1 for a draw. Then the tie breakers come into play. Tie breakers 2 and 3 are virtually the same but that's the way they do it in that neck of the woods. And these tie break rules change for the final but we'll get to that when necessary
Anyhoo......second leg results
Sport 1-0 Palmeiras (Palmeiras wins 3-1 on Penalties)
Caracas 4-0 Deportivo Cuenca (Caracas win on goal difference)
Grêmio 2-0 U. San Martin (Grêmio win 6-0 on points)
Cruzeiro 1-0 Universidad de Chile (Cruzeiro win 6-0 on points)
Club Libertad 0-0 Estudiantes (Estudiantes win 4-1 on points)
Drama at the Ilha do Retiro as a late goal from Wilson levelled things up between Sport and Palmeiras. So it finished all level at 1-1 on all the tie breakers and therefore it went to penalties. And it was the visitors who were successful, winning the tie 3-1 to progress. In Caracas, the hosts overcame a 1 goal defecit to progress comfortably after a 4-0 win over Deportivo Cuenca. Figueroa levelled the tie from the spot after 24 minutes before goals Prieto, Renteria and Rey put Caracas into the last 8. Grêmio wrapped a comfortable progression over Universidad San Martin with a 2-0 win. After the 3-1 win in Lima the week before Grêmio were never troubled and wrapped things up with goals from Jonas and substitute Herrera
After a late goal in Santiago last week looked like it would make things interesting Cruzeiro easily qualifed for the last 8 with a 1-0 win over Universidad de Chile. Kléber with the only goal of the game with 16 minutes left. Estudiantes also progressed after a 0-0 draw with Club Libertad in Asunción. No goals, but plenty of cards. 10 yellows issued in all with Libertad's Pouso dismissed after 66 minutes.
First Leg
Defensor Sporting 2-2 Boca Juniors
Defensor twice came from a goal down to leave everything to play for in next week's second leg at La Bombonera. Martin Palermo gave Boca the dream start with a 3rd minute opener but Pablo Gaglianone equalised on the stroke of half time. Rodrigo Palacio put Boca back ahead just short of the hour mark before Rodrigo Mora's strike 3 minutes from time sent Defensor back over the River Plate still with a chance to qualify.
Last 8 draw
Caracas v Grêmio
Cruzeiro v São Paulo
Estudiantes v Boca/Defensor (Note: If Defensor win, they will be at home in the first leg)
Palmeiras v Nacional
In other news, CONMEBOL have announced that the draw for this years Copa Nissan Sudamericana will take place on July 3rd at CONMEBOL headquarters in Asunción. 16 teams are confirmed participants at the moment, they are Boca Juniors and River Plate (ARG); Internacional (BRA, holders), Flamengo, Coritiba, Goiás, Botafogo, Vitória, Atlético Mineiro, Fluminense and Atlético Paranaense (BRA); Union Española (CHI); CD La Equidad and Deportivo Cali (COL); Cienciano and Alianza Atlético of Sullana (PER); Deportivo Anzoátegui (VEN).
Anyhoo......second leg results
Sport 1-0 Palmeiras (Palmeiras wins 3-1 on Penalties)
Caracas 4-0 Deportivo Cuenca (Caracas win on goal difference)
Grêmio 2-0 U. San Martin (Grêmio win 6-0 on points)
Cruzeiro 1-0 Universidad de Chile (Cruzeiro win 6-0 on points)
Club Libertad 0-0 Estudiantes (Estudiantes win 4-1 on points)
Drama at the Ilha do Retiro as a late goal from Wilson levelled things up between Sport and Palmeiras. So it finished all level at 1-1 on all the tie breakers and therefore it went to penalties. And it was the visitors who were successful, winning the tie 3-1 to progress. In Caracas, the hosts overcame a 1 goal defecit to progress comfortably after a 4-0 win over Deportivo Cuenca. Figueroa levelled the tie from the spot after 24 minutes before goals Prieto, Renteria and Rey put Caracas into the last 8. Grêmio wrapped a comfortable progression over Universidad San Martin with a 2-0 win. After the 3-1 win in Lima the week before Grêmio were never troubled and wrapped things up with goals from Jonas and substitute Herrera
After a late goal in Santiago last week looked like it would make things interesting Cruzeiro easily qualifed for the last 8 with a 1-0 win over Universidad de Chile. Kléber with the only goal of the game with 16 minutes left. Estudiantes also progressed after a 0-0 draw with Club Libertad in Asunción. No goals, but plenty of cards. 10 yellows issued in all with Libertad's Pouso dismissed after 66 minutes.
First Leg
Defensor Sporting 2-2 Boca Juniors
Defensor twice came from a goal down to leave everything to play for in next week's second leg at La Bombonera. Martin Palermo gave Boca the dream start with a 3rd minute opener but Pablo Gaglianone equalised on the stroke of half time. Rodrigo Palacio put Boca back ahead just short of the hour mark before Rodrigo Mora's strike 3 minutes from time sent Defensor back over the River Plate still with a chance to qualify.
Last 8 draw
Caracas v Grêmio
Cruzeiro v São Paulo
Estudiantes v Boca/Defensor (Note: If Defensor win, they will be at home in the first leg)
Palmeiras v Nacional
In other news, CONMEBOL have announced that the draw for this years Copa Nissan Sudamericana will take place on July 3rd at CONMEBOL headquarters in Asunción. 16 teams are confirmed participants at the moment, they are Boca Juniors and River Plate (ARG); Internacional (BRA, holders), Flamengo, Coritiba, Goiás, Botafogo, Vitória, Atlético Mineiro, Fluminense and Atlético Paranaense (BRA); Union Española (CHI); CD La Equidad and Deportivo Cali (COL); Cienciano and Alianza Atlético of Sullana (PER); Deportivo Anzoátegui (VEN).
Tuesday, 12 May 2009
Copa Libertadores Update
Due to the ongoing Swine Flu outbreak CONMEBOL have reluctantly accepted the withdrawal of Guadalajara and San Luis from this years Copa Libertadores by FeMexFu. It was getting harder for the games to be arranged as both São Paulo and Nacional had refused to travel to Mexico and attempts to stage the games in Colombia were unsuccessful. This means both São Paulo and Nacional now progress to the quarter finals without kicking a ball in anger.
FeMexFu have also withdrawn their clubs from this years Copa Sudamericana which gets underway later in the year.
FeMexFu have also withdrawn their clubs from this years Copa Sudamericana which gets underway later in the year.
Friday, 8 May 2009
Copa Libertadores Round Up
Copa Libertadores Round of 16 1st Legs
The Swine Flu outbreak has begun to cause havoc with the competition. With both Mexican clubs due to play their games as double header at Estadio El Campín in Bogotá, the city authorities blackballed CONMEBOL's plan fearing an epidemic to break out. CONMEBOL have therefore decided to delay the games by a week in order to come up with a solution to the problem.
Things got underway at the Palestra Itália on Tuesday night where Palmeiras and Sport met for the third time in the competition this season. The seeding system allowing two teams from the same group to meet again in the competition. Palmeiras had held the upper hand in the Group stage, winning in Recife before a draw back at the Palestra Itália. And it is the home side who would take a lead into next weeks second leg. After Hamilton Calheiros was shown a straight red card for Sport for a foul on José Ortigoza and it was Ortigoza who had the last laugh a minute later as he headed home the winner.
Grêmio put one foor in the last 8 with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Universidad San Martín in Lima. Souza put the top seeded Brazilians into the lease but Martín Arzuaga equalized 11 minutes before half time. However a Maxi López (yes, the former Barcelona player) brace in the second half should be enough to see the Brazilians into the last 8.
The remaining first leg ties to be played this week were completed on Thursday night. Cruzeiro will take a 2-1 lead over Universidad de Chile back to Belo Horizonte for the second leg next week. Soares and Marquinhos Paraná put Cruzeiro two up before Rafael Ollara made next week's game interesting with a strike 7 minutes from time. Universidad will be without Rafael Ollarra after he was sent off three minutes from time.
Estudiantes stuck a toe into the last 8 with a 3-0 victory over Club Libertad in La Plata. Gastón Fernández put the home side up inside a minute and two second half goals in the space of 7 minutes from Mauro Boselli wrapped things up. Miguel Samudio was sent off for Club Libertad and he will miss the return match.
Caracas got the perfect start in Cuenca on what can only be described as a "paddy field" of a pitch when Gabriel Cichero put them ahead against Deportivo Cuenca inside two minutes. Rodrigo Teixiera levelled for Deportivo just short of the hour before Hólger Matamoros struck 20 minutes from time to give the Ecuadorians a slender 2-1 advantage to take back to Caracas.
Results
Palmeiras 1-0 Sport
Universidad San Martin 1-3 Grêmio
Deportivo Cuenca 2-1 Caracas
Estudiantes 3-0 Club Libertad
Universidad de Chile 1-2 Cruzeiro
Next weeks fixtures
First Legs
14/5 Defensor Sporting v Boca Juniors
TBC San Luis v Nacional
TBC Guadalajara v São Paulo
Second Legs
12/5 Sport v Palmeiras
12/5 Caracas v Deportivo Cuenca
13/5 Grêmio v Universidad San Martin
14/5 Cruzeiro v Universidad de Chile
14/5 Club Libertad v Estudiantes
The Swine Flu outbreak has begun to cause havoc with the competition. With both Mexican clubs due to play their games as double header at Estadio El Campín in Bogotá, the city authorities blackballed CONMEBOL's plan fearing an epidemic to break out. CONMEBOL have therefore decided to delay the games by a week in order to come up with a solution to the problem.
Things got underway at the Palestra Itália on Tuesday night where Palmeiras and Sport met for the third time in the competition this season. The seeding system allowing two teams from the same group to meet again in the competition. Palmeiras had held the upper hand in the Group stage, winning in Recife before a draw back at the Palestra Itália. And it is the home side who would take a lead into next weeks second leg. After Hamilton Calheiros was shown a straight red card for Sport for a foul on José Ortigoza and it was Ortigoza who had the last laugh a minute later as he headed home the winner.
Grêmio put one foor in the last 8 with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Universidad San Martín in Lima. Souza put the top seeded Brazilians into the lease but Martín Arzuaga equalized 11 minutes before half time. However a Maxi López (yes, the former Barcelona player) brace in the second half should be enough to see the Brazilians into the last 8.
The remaining first leg ties to be played this week were completed on Thursday night. Cruzeiro will take a 2-1 lead over Universidad de Chile back to Belo Horizonte for the second leg next week. Soares and Marquinhos Paraná put Cruzeiro two up before Rafael Ollara made next week's game interesting with a strike 7 minutes from time. Universidad will be without Rafael Ollarra after he was sent off three minutes from time.
Estudiantes stuck a toe into the last 8 with a 3-0 victory over Club Libertad in La Plata. Gastón Fernández put the home side up inside a minute and two second half goals in the space of 7 minutes from Mauro Boselli wrapped things up. Miguel Samudio was sent off for Club Libertad and he will miss the return match.
Caracas got the perfect start in Cuenca on what can only be described as a "paddy field" of a pitch when Gabriel Cichero put them ahead against Deportivo Cuenca inside two minutes. Rodrigo Teixiera levelled for Deportivo just short of the hour before Hólger Matamoros struck 20 minutes from time to give the Ecuadorians a slender 2-1 advantage to take back to Caracas.
Results
Palmeiras 1-0 Sport
Universidad San Martin 1-3 Grêmio
Deportivo Cuenca 2-1 Caracas
Estudiantes 3-0 Club Libertad
Universidad de Chile 1-2 Cruzeiro
Next weeks fixtures
First Legs
14/5 Defensor Sporting v Boca Juniors
TBC San Luis v Nacional
TBC Guadalajara v São Paulo
Second Legs
12/5 Sport v Palmeiras
12/5 Caracas v Deportivo Cuenca
13/5 Grêmio v Universidad San Martin
14/5 Cruzeiro v Universidad de Chile
14/5 Club Libertad v Estudiantes
Friday, 24 April 2009
Copa Libertadores Group Stage So Far
Copa Libertadores Group Stages so far
In Group 1, holders LDU Quito have been eliminated from the competition with 1 week left of the group stages after a 2-0 defeat to Palmeiras at the Palestra Itália on Tuesday night. That with Sport Recife's come from behind win against Colo Colo on Wednesday mean it's impossible for the holders to progress. That win has ensured that Sport progress to the knockout stages and they travel to Quito next week to finish the group stage. With both teams on 7 points the second qualifier will be decided in Santiago where Colo Colo entertain Palmeiras. The hosts have a superior goal difference which means the Brazilians must win if they are to progress.
In Group 2 it's still all to play for after Boca Juniors suffered their first defeat of the competition to Deportivo Cuenca in Ecuador on Thursday night. Édison Preciado with the only goal after 78 minutes. It's the first points that the Argentinian club have dropped in the competition so far after progressing through their opening 4 games with ease. Going into the last week of games it's going to be between Boca, Cuenca and Deportivo Táchira of Venezuela for the two spots in the knockout stages. Boca need only a point to finish as group winners and they face Deportivo Táchira at La Bombonera whilst Deportivo Cuenca travel to Paraguay to meet Guaraní, who have already been eliminated from the competition after losing all their games so far.
The qualifying positions in Group 3 have been decided after River Plate fell to a 4-2 defeat to Club Nacional of Paraguay in Asunción on Thursday night. River took the lead through Ramadel Falcao after 44 minutes but undid it all 60 seconds later when Fabio Escobar converted from the spot. Jorge Núñez and Carlos Peralta extended the lead before Escobar grabbed a second. Marcello Gallardo's consolation strike in the 82nd minute too little to late for River as they crashed out. That result enabled Universidad San Martín of Peru to qualify alongside Nacional of Uruguay after the 2 clubs drew 1-1 in Lima on Tuesday night. The Uruguayans, currently with a 3 point lead and far superior goal difference, should progress as group winners with their final fixture against Club Nacional in the Estadio Centenario next Thursday night.
Brazilian Champions São Paulo had defenitely qualified from Group 4 before Matchday 6 began but they could still be caught by Independiente Medellín for the top position. The one certainty in Group 4 is the elimination of Colombia's América de Cali before the week started and they were defeated 2-1 by São Paulo in their final game. Uruguay's Defensor Sporting and Independiente Medellín met in Montevideo on Wednesday night with 2 points seperating the sides and it took a goal in the 4th minute of injury time from Pablo Gaglianone to break the hearts of Independiente Medellín. This coming after Diego Cabrera has scored to level the game right on the 90 minute mark. Defensor Sporting winning 4-3 to join São Paulo in the knockout stages.
Group 5 was also completed this week and it was tight at the top with 2 points seperating three clubs going into the final round. Universitario de Sucre of Bolivia have been eliminated after picking up only 1 point from their 5 games so far. They face second placed Estudiantes of Argentina at home in the last round of fixtures whilst group leaders Cruzeiro and Deportivo Quito of Ecuador meet at the Mineirão. A win or draw would see Cruzeiro advance whilst a draw would see Deportivo Quito then left to await the outcome in Sucre. A win for Estudiantes in Bolivia and it left Quito the task of winning in Brazil to advance. Quito though, weren't up to the task at the Mineirão and two first half goal saw Cruzeiro advance in first place whilst Estudiantes goal less draw in Quito was academic given the events in Belo Horizonte and saw them qualify as runners up.
In group 6, Caracas of Venezuela are the only team defenitely through to the next round whilst Lanús of Argentina have been eliminated. The crucial game next week is in Viña del Mar in Chile where Everton meet invitee side Guadalajara of Mexico. The hosts must win in order to progress to the knockout phase whilst Guadalajara must avoid defeat as they currently hold a 1 point advantage in the table.
In Group 7 Brazilian side Grêmio are into the last 16 after only dropping 2 points out of 15 so far in a surprise 0-0 draw against Universidad de Chile in their opening game. The final spot will be contested by Boyacá Chicó of Colombia and Universidad de Chile. Despite trailing the Colombians by two points going into the last Matchday the Chileans travel to Aurora of Bolivia, who alongside Guaraní, have collected no points so far whilst Boyacá Chicó have the unenviable task of getting the point they need away at the Olímpico Monumental against Grêmio. There are lots of permetations for these games which could end up with the drawing of lots to decide who advances.
Group 8 is a little more clear cut, Club Libertad of Paraguay are confirmed as group winners whilst San Lorenzo of Argentina are defenitely eliminated. The final two places are between the third Mexican invitee San Luis and Universitario of Peru. Universitario need a point from their trip to Buenos Aires against San Lorenzo to guarantee qualification whilst San Luis need to defeat Club Libertad in Luque by at least 2 goals to have any chance of qualification and hope they get a favour from San Lorenzo.
The remaining Matchday 6 games take place next week.
Clubs qualified as group winners are Cruzeiro, Grêmio, Club Libertad and São Paulo.
Clubs qualified as runners up are Estudiantes and Defensor Sporting
Clubs through to the last 16 but places still to be decided are Caracas, Nacional, Sport Recife and Universidad San Martín
In Group 1, holders LDU Quito have been eliminated from the competition with 1 week left of the group stages after a 2-0 defeat to Palmeiras at the Palestra Itália on Tuesday night. That with Sport Recife's come from behind win against Colo Colo on Wednesday mean it's impossible for the holders to progress. That win has ensured that Sport progress to the knockout stages and they travel to Quito next week to finish the group stage. With both teams on 7 points the second qualifier will be decided in Santiago where Colo Colo entertain Palmeiras. The hosts have a superior goal difference which means the Brazilians must win if they are to progress.
In Group 2 it's still all to play for after Boca Juniors suffered their first defeat of the competition to Deportivo Cuenca in Ecuador on Thursday night. Édison Preciado with the only goal after 78 minutes. It's the first points that the Argentinian club have dropped in the competition so far after progressing through their opening 4 games with ease. Going into the last week of games it's going to be between Boca, Cuenca and Deportivo Táchira of Venezuela for the two spots in the knockout stages. Boca need only a point to finish as group winners and they face Deportivo Táchira at La Bombonera whilst Deportivo Cuenca travel to Paraguay to meet Guaraní, who have already been eliminated from the competition after losing all their games so far.
The qualifying positions in Group 3 have been decided after River Plate fell to a 4-2 defeat to Club Nacional of Paraguay in Asunción on Thursday night. River took the lead through Ramadel Falcao after 44 minutes but undid it all 60 seconds later when Fabio Escobar converted from the spot. Jorge Núñez and Carlos Peralta extended the lead before Escobar grabbed a second. Marcello Gallardo's consolation strike in the 82nd minute too little to late for River as they crashed out. That result enabled Universidad San Martín of Peru to qualify alongside Nacional of Uruguay after the 2 clubs drew 1-1 in Lima on Tuesday night. The Uruguayans, currently with a 3 point lead and far superior goal difference, should progress as group winners with their final fixture against Club Nacional in the Estadio Centenario next Thursday night.
Brazilian Champions São Paulo had defenitely qualified from Group 4 before Matchday 6 began but they could still be caught by Independiente Medellín for the top position. The one certainty in Group 4 is the elimination of Colombia's América de Cali before the week started and they were defeated 2-1 by São Paulo in their final game. Uruguay's Defensor Sporting and Independiente Medellín met in Montevideo on Wednesday night with 2 points seperating the sides and it took a goal in the 4th minute of injury time from Pablo Gaglianone to break the hearts of Independiente Medellín. This coming after Diego Cabrera has scored to level the game right on the 90 minute mark. Defensor Sporting winning 4-3 to join São Paulo in the knockout stages.
Group 5 was also completed this week and it was tight at the top with 2 points seperating three clubs going into the final round. Universitario de Sucre of Bolivia have been eliminated after picking up only 1 point from their 5 games so far. They face second placed Estudiantes of Argentina at home in the last round of fixtures whilst group leaders Cruzeiro and Deportivo Quito of Ecuador meet at the Mineirão. A win or draw would see Cruzeiro advance whilst a draw would see Deportivo Quito then left to await the outcome in Sucre. A win for Estudiantes in Bolivia and it left Quito the task of winning in Brazil to advance. Quito though, weren't up to the task at the Mineirão and two first half goal saw Cruzeiro advance in first place whilst Estudiantes goal less draw in Quito was academic given the events in Belo Horizonte and saw them qualify as runners up.
In group 6, Caracas of Venezuela are the only team defenitely through to the next round whilst Lanús of Argentina have been eliminated. The crucial game next week is in Viña del Mar in Chile where Everton meet invitee side Guadalajara of Mexico. The hosts must win in order to progress to the knockout phase whilst Guadalajara must avoid defeat as they currently hold a 1 point advantage in the table.
In Group 7 Brazilian side Grêmio are into the last 16 after only dropping 2 points out of 15 so far in a surprise 0-0 draw against Universidad de Chile in their opening game. The final spot will be contested by Boyacá Chicó of Colombia and Universidad de Chile. Despite trailing the Colombians by two points going into the last Matchday the Chileans travel to Aurora of Bolivia, who alongside Guaraní, have collected no points so far whilst Boyacá Chicó have the unenviable task of getting the point they need away at the Olímpico Monumental against Grêmio. There are lots of permetations for these games which could end up with the drawing of lots to decide who advances.
Group 8 is a little more clear cut, Club Libertad of Paraguay are confirmed as group winners whilst San Lorenzo of Argentina are defenitely eliminated. The final two places are between the third Mexican invitee San Luis and Universitario of Peru. Universitario need a point from their trip to Buenos Aires against San Lorenzo to guarantee qualification whilst San Luis need to defeat Club Libertad in Luque by at least 2 goals to have any chance of qualification and hope they get a favour from San Lorenzo.
The remaining Matchday 6 games take place next week.
Clubs qualified as group winners are Cruzeiro, Grêmio, Club Libertad and São Paulo.
Clubs qualified as runners up are Estudiantes and Defensor Sporting
Clubs through to the last 16 but places still to be decided are Caracas, Nacional, Sport Recife and Universidad San Martín
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