Copa Libertadores wrap: Jaguares win as Brazilian clubs held

Jaguares de Chiapas opened their Copa Libertadores campaign with a win at Alianza Lima on Wednesday, while Gremio and Corinthians were held.

Mexican club Jaguares, appearing in South America’s premier club tournament for the first time, moved closer to a berth in the main draw by defeating Peruvian outfit Alianza 2-0 in the opening leg of their qualifying tie.

Nineteen-year-old striker Michael Pedroza got the visitors on the scoresheet in the 41st minute, his first goal in nine appearances for the senior team.

Midfielder Jorge Rodriguez sealed the victory from the penalty spot less than a minute after the half-time break.

Elsewhere, lowly Uruguayan club Liverpool stunned Gremio by holding the Brazilian top-flight outfit to a 2-2 draw.

Gremio were expected to outclass their lesser opponents, who are also making their debut Copa appearance, but the Uruguayans twice drew level after falling behind at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo.

Gremio striker Andre Lima put the visitors ahead in just the sixth minute, only for former Chacarita Juniors attacker Maureen Franco to score on debut for Liverpool four minutes later.

Douglas put Gremio back in front in the 14th minute, but Liverpool were again up to the task and levelled through veteran midfielder Carlos Macchi on 25 minutes.

Finally, Deportes Tolima shocked Brazilian heavyweights Corinthians with a 0-0 away draw in Sao Paolo.

The result leaves Corinthians in danger of missing the main draw of 32 teams.

Return legs are played next Wednesday.