LDU Defeats São Paulo 2-0 in Libertadores First Leg
QUITO, ECUADOR - Liga de Quito (LDU) secured a commanding 2-0 victory over São Paulo FC in the first leg of their Copa Libertadores Round of 16 tie on Thursday, leaving the Brazilian side with a notable uphill battle for the return leg. Goals from Ramírez (15′) and Michael Estrada (78′) propelled LDU to a strong advantage at Casa Blanca.
The Ecuadorian club, a familiar opponent to Brazilian teams – notably current league champion Botafogo - capitalized on clinical finishing despite a challenging altitude. While São Paulo enjoyed a more dominant second half, creating several opportunities, they were unable to convert them into goals.
São Paulo’s hopes were hampered by an offside call against Luciano early in the second half and a strong performance from LDU goalkeeper Valle, who denied attempts from Luciano and Ferreirinha. The absence of a natural playmaker and a delayed start for Ferreira also impacted São Paulo’s attacking fluidity.
LDU now holds a significant advantage heading into the second leg. they can afford to lose by up to one goal at morumbis next Thursday (25). São Paulo must win by at least three goals in regulation time to advance, or secure a two-goal victory to force a penalty shootout. The winner will face either Palmeiras or River Plate in the semi-finals.
Both teams return to domestic action on Sunday (21). LDU will host Universidad Católica in Liga Pro,while São Paulo will visit Santos in Brasileirão.
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