Both Colombian teams in the Copa Libertadores, Once Caldas and Independiente Medellin, were held to draws in Tuesday’s group phase action.
After wins over Paraguay’s Nacional and Brazilian giants Sao Paulo, Once Caldas looked to add another victory in a home match with Monterrey of Mexico.
But the visiting team took the lead through Hector Morales in the 32nd minute, giving the Colombians the task of finding their way back into the game in the second half.
When Monterrey’s Jesus Zavala received a second yellow card in the 57th minute and John Jairo Valencia netted the equaliser a minute later, things suddenly looked a lot better for the Manizales outfit.
But although Monterrey lost another player, Gerardo Galindo through a red card late on, the Mexicans avoided a second Colombian goal.
Once Caldas do remain in first place in Group 2, with seven points from three games.
Independiente Medellin hosted Corinthians of Brazil, including world legends Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos. The match was played in Bogota as Medellin’s main stadium is undergoing reconstruction for next year’s Youth World Cup.
Medellin gave the favored Brazilians a hard time in the Colombian capital city, and even took the lead through Cesar Valoyes in the 76th minute. It would not be enough for the win however as Dentinho’s distance strike levelled things nine minutes later.
DIM remain in third place in Group 1, with all teams having played two games.
