In a minor upset, Once Caldas, who were in last place in Group 1 entering tonight’s action, have defeated Universidad San Martin 2-0 in Peru in the final match of Copa Libertadores group play. Their win, combined with San Luis’s loss to Libertad, means that the Colombian side has advanced to the knockout stages of the competition. They finish in second place on seven points, and will almost certainly be the 16th seed in the knockout stage, meaning they will face Brazilian side Cruzeiro.
Universidad San Martin Vs. Once Caldas: Full Time, Visitors Win 2-0
In-form striker Wason Renteria scored the opener with a great turn and left footed shot in the 16th minute, while Matias Mirabaje added the second goal in the 76th minute with a fantastic free kick. Universidad San Martin player Adan Balbin picked up a straight red card in the 80th minute, ending all chances that USM had of making a comeback.
Coming into this game, USM only needed a draw to advance to the second knockout round if San Luis failed to win. After their poor performance tonight, they’ll be left wondering what could have been.
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