Copa Sudamericana

If an outside observer had to call the final between Goias of Brazil and Independiente of Argentina, you normally wouldn't be questioned if you put your money on Independiente. How is it then that Goias have a 2-0 lead going into the second leg? Rafael Moura and Otacilio Neto were the keys to the small team's success as they both scored goals in a match where the Argentines weren't allowed to get into any kind of a rhythem. Indeed, defenders Julian Velazquez and Leonel Galeano were both booked relatively early in the first half, just before the opening goal in the 15th minute in fact. Rafael Moura fired a beauty just beyond the reach of Independiente's goalkeeper Hilario Navarro. The goal gave Moura a better position as the tournament's top scorer with seven goals, very impressive. The second strike came just over five minutes later as Douglas crossed sweetly, once more out of the reach of Navarro's grasp, allowing the ball to drop to Neto who had a simple finish to make it 2-0. There were several other chances, however Moura's header with five minutes left was possibly the best chance to make it 3-0, but Navarro served Independiente well, saving it. Independiente's problems were also expounded when striker Nestor Andres Silvera was sent off by referee Carlos Torres after elbowing Goias defender Rafael Toloi. Goias has to keep their cool now though, as anything can happen in the next 90 minutes, especially as Independiente will have a vibrant home crowd behind them. I'm expecting another great game.