A header goal by Colombian Richard Ríos in stoppage time allowed Palmeiras to defeat Sporting Cristal 2-3 on Thursday in an exciting match of Group G of the Copa Libertadores played at the Estadio Nacional de Lima.

Intense exchange of goals

Sporting Cristal equalized twice, first with a powerful shot from outside the box by Jesús Pretell, and then with another stunning goal from Martín Távara. On the other hand, the Brazilians took the lead with a goal from Estevão, a standout figure in the match, Joaquín Piquerez from a penalty, and finally Richard Ríos, who scored the winning goal in the last minute of the game.

The match was marked by a high physical intensity and fierce competition on the field, which was affected by the poor condition of the grass. Despite Palmeiras trying to control the game from the start, Sporting Cristal kept up, leveling the match 10 minutes into play.

Estevão's decisive role and the local comeback

In the 38th minute, Estevão, only 17 years old, took advantage of a rebound in the box after a shot blocked by goalkeeper Diego Enríquez to give Palmeiras the lead. In the second half, the Brazilian side had several chances, but Enríquez kept his team in the game with key saves.

Just when it seemed that Palmeiras was in control, Sporting Cristal bounced back. First, Pretell equalized in the 68th minute with a brilliant goal from outside the box, and 10 minutes later, Piquerez scored a penalty for Palmeiras, but Távara quickly responded with another stunning goal in the 84th minute to make it 2-2.

Ríos' last-minute goal

As everyone expected a draw, Ríos appeared in stoppage time to capitalize on a cross and score the winning goal for Palmeiras, sealing the 2-3 victory with a header.

In the first match of Group G, played on Tuesday, Cerro Porteño defeated Bolívar from Bolivia 4-2. In the second round, Palmeiras will host Cerro Porteño, and Bolívar will face Sporting Cristal, with both matches scheduled for April 9th.