Santos Vs. Club America, 2011 Copa Libertadores: Santos Earn 1-0 Home Win

Well, that wasn’t nearly as one-sided as you might expect for a team featuring the likes of Neymar and Paulo Henrique Ganso against one of Mexico’s weaker defences. Santos earned a 1-0 win at the Urbano Caldeira after a nifty first-half goal from Ganso, who picked of the ball outside the penalty area and smoked it past Guillermo ‘Memo’ Ochoa at the far post. Unfortunately, however, that was most of the action in the match. Club America defended deep, frustrated their hosts, and Santos could never find the extra gear needed to break their opposition down.

There was one moment of excitement in the second half, however - America defender Miguel Layun, who was introduced as a substitute toward the end of the first half, picked up his second booking in injury time and was sent off, ruling him out of the return leg. That was, ore or less, the only notable thing America managed all game, and they’re going to have to do much better next time out if they want to progress. Still, they kept it tight, and when you’re up against Santos and you have to play the first leg away, that about all you can ask for. There’s still all to play for in Queretaro - it’s a real shame America aren’t going to be able to play the match at the Azteca, however. Curse those pesky rock stars U2 for scheduling a concert at the same time as a game!