Debuting in the Copa Libertadores Group Stages, the Colombian side Independiente Medellin hosted the Paraguayan side Libertad at the traditional Atanasio Girardot Stadium. The Paraguayans stepped up and inflicted a home defeat of 2-1 to the Colombians. Libertad’s goals were scored by Bocanegra, and Oscar Cardozo, as Jesus Murillo scored the consolation for the hosts.
Although playing as visitors, Libertad was the one who took the initiative into the match and started off on fire. The opener was scored in the 3rd minute, as Daniel Bocanegra connected with a free-kick and headed home to give the Paraguayans’ the lead. 0-1 Libertad.
One became two on 27 ‘ as Sebastian Ferreira received the ball down the right, powered home and crossed it to the area. The loose ball fell to Oscar Cardozo’s feet, who sent it to the back of the net with his left foot. 0-2 Libertad.
The Paraguayans remained on top of the hosts in the second half and had the chance of scoring the third through Caicedo. However, the hosts grabbed their consolation on 59 minutes, as in a corner kick, defender Jesus Murillo came up from behind and used his head to diminish the advantage built by the visitors. 1-2.
Independiente Medellin pushed for the equalizer, but they weren’t competent enough to do so, as the Paraguayans went back home with the important three points.
With the 2-1 away victory, Libertad took the lead of Group H in the Copa Libertadores, with three points, while Medellin is currently in the last place, with no point.
For the next match in the continental competition, Libertad will host Caracas, at Defensores del Chaco stadium, on next Tuesday. The Colombian team will travel to Buenos Aires to face Boca Juniors at their home.