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Copa Libertadores: Sao Paulo Sneak Past Defensor

The Brazilian champions came from behind to defeat the Uruguayans 2-1 in a tight Copa Libertadores Group 4 encounter on Thursday...

Apr 10, 2009 2:10:50 AM

Libertadores da América: Borges - São Paulo

Sao Paulo came into the match as the overwhelming favourites, but they were in for a rough ride as it was the Uruguayans who played the better football in the first half.

Defensor, who confronted the match with a reserve side to concentrate on the Uruguayan championship, looked strong in all aspects of their game and they tested the Brazilians with a number of good efforts.

After much pressure, they finally went ahead in the 38th minute when Sao Paulo goalkeeper Rogerio Ceni couldn't deal with a long-range Diego De Souza free-kick and ended up turning it into his own goal.

The effort was initially disallowed, but after video replay evidence it was validated as a goal almost five minutes later.

After the break Sao Paulo clearly picked up their game, and they created several clear-cut opportunities to find the back of the net.

They were unlucky not to score, as two goal-bound efforts came off the crossbar, to the disbelief of the strong 50,000 home crowd.

But their persistence finally paid off, as in the 71st minute Borges beat Martin Silva with a precise finish after being given time and space in the area.

Four minutes later Borges put the Brazilians ahead, when he poked the ball home after a lapse of concentration in the Defensor defence.

Towards the end of the match Defensor pushed forward in numbers searching for an equaliser, and they came close to scoring through substitute Pablo Gaglianone.

In the early game, Colo Colo snatched a late 1-1 draw with Copa Libertadores holders Liga Deportiva Universitaria de Quito.

Gregory Sica, Goal.com

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