Santos Kicks Off Copa Sudamericana Round of 16 with a Victory
This Thursday, at Vila Belmiro, the black-and-white team defeated Macará 2-1, coming from behind, and gained an advantage in the dispute against the Ecuadorians.
The visitors opened the scoring just three minutes into the game, with Posse. Santos sought the equalizer at the end of the first half, when Gabigol capitalized on a great assist from Neymar. After halftime, following two other goals from the number 9 being disallowed, Santos secured the victory in the 30th minute: Neymar took a corner kick for Willian Arão to deflect and seal the score.
Santos will face Macará again next Thursday, the 20th, in Ecuador. The black-and-white team has the advantage of being able to draw to secure qualification. A one-goal victory for the Ecuadorians would take the decision for the spot to penalties.
Whoever advances will face the winner of the clash between Red Bull Bragantino and Atlético-MG in the Copa Sudamericana quarterfinals.
