Copa Sudamericana: Universidad Catolica 2 Atletico GO 0

Universidad Catolica are in the box seat to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Copa Sudamericana after a 2-0 win over Atletico Goianiense.

The Chilean side took the lead shortly after half-time through Francisco Silva before substitute Alvaro Ramos slammed a second in the closing stages of the first leg clash at the Estadio San Carlos de Apoquindo.

After a quiet first half, Silva broke the deadlock in the 55th minute with a well-taken strike after good lead up work from Sixto Peralta.

The Brazilian side held on valiantly, but Ramos’ strike two minutes before the end gave the hosts a crucial second goal ahead of the second leg at the Estadio Serra Dourada in Goiania.

Universidad Catolica coach Juan Martin Lasarte was happy with the result, but said there was still plenty of work to do to progress.

“It wasn’t a high-level game, but we always maintained the rhythm and the focus, therefore we are well deserved winners,” he said.

“Despite the two goals, the tie is not over and we must not to relax.”