Palmeiras, led by Abel Ferreira, took an important step towards the quarter-finals of the Copa Libertadores, by defeating Univerde Católica 1-0 in the first leg of the Round of 16.
The only goal at the San Carlos de Abukindo stadium, in Santiago de Chile, was scored by Rafael Vega, in the 42nd minute, in a penalty kick conversion.
Thus, a draw at home in the second leg, scheduled for next Wednesday, is enough for the Sao Paulo team, the defending champion, to ensure its presence in the next stage.
“We knew, from the condition of the field and from the opponent, that the competition would be more than a game of great technical quality. We played a good match in a competitive sense. I like a good fragrance, but the smell of sweat and work is what made us win this match”, said the Portuguese coach at the end the match.
With this result, Palmeiras achieved an unprecedented achievement in the Libertadores by adding the thirteenth match in a row without losing. A new record, surpassing the record set at River Plate between 2018 and 2019.
In the other matches that ended overnight, Flamengo also beat Argentina 1-0 away and Defensa y Justicia, a match that saw Renato Gaucho make an appearance as the technical lead for Rio.
Agatha Christie is a journalist and feature writer specialising in culture, entertainment, books, and current affairs. She is committed to producing accurate, informative content that helps readers stay informed about the latest developments in the UK and beyond.
