Chancellor’s Strike Sends Universidad Católica Through in Libertadores Opener
Universidad Católica edged past Juventud 1-0 at Parque Artigas to take control of their CONMEBOL Libertadores qualification tie, with Jhon Chancellor’s second-half header proving the difference in a tightly contested affair.
The Chilean side dominated proceedings after the interval despite failing to convert a penalty just before half-time, when J. Fajardo saw his spot-kick saved by the Juventud goalkeeper in the 44th minute.
Chancellor made amends for his teammate’s miss just two minutes after the restart, rising unmarked to power home the only goal of the encounter. The defender’s clinical finish capped a patient build-up that had seen Universidad Católica probe relentlessly for an opener throughout the first 45 minutes.
Juventud’s evening was further complicated by L. Roldán’s 35th-minute booking, which forced the Uruguayan hosts to adopt a more conservative approach against opponents who controlled possession for large spells.
The visitors’ tactical discipline shone through as they managed the game expertly after taking the lead. E. Mejía and E. Clavijo both picked up yellow cards as Universidad Católica committed tactical fouls to disrupt Juventud’s rhythm, whilst manager made four substitutions in the final 10 minutes to see out the victory.
Referee G. Vargas kept proceedings flowing despite the numerous cards, booking four Universidad Católica players in total including J. Cacciabue in the dying moments.
The result puts Universidad Católica in pole position ahead of the return leg, with Juventud needing to overturn the deficit on Chilean soil to progress to the next round of South America’s premier club competition.
Both sides will rue missed opportunities in a cagey encounter that epitomised the knockout nature of Libertadores qualifying, where defensive solidity often trumps attacking flair. Universidad Católica’s greater experience at this level ultimately told, setting up an intriguing second leg.
