Universidad Católica of Ecuador claimed a 3-1 victory over Cerro Largo of Uruguay in the Copa Sudamericana, solidifying their position at the top of Group B. The Ecuadorian side now has four points, while Cerro remains at the bottom with zero. Defensa y Justicia from Argentina and Brazil’s Vitória are in the middle, each with two points following their goalless draw.

Londoño and Díaz lead Universidad Católica to victory

The match, held at the Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa in Quito, saw Azarías Londoño open the scoring in the 18th minute with a precise header following an assist from Gregory Anangonó. Shortly before halftime, Ismael Díaz doubled the lead with an impressive solo effort in stoppage time.

In the second half, Brian Ferrares pulled one back for Cerro Largo with a well-placed header in the 75th minute, giving his team hope. However, Díaz sealed the victory for Universidad Católica in the 94th minute, securing his brace and ensuring his team remained in control of the group.

There was also a moment of controversy when referee Michael Espinoza initially showed a red card to Ferrares in the 56th minute, but after a VAR review, it was downgraded to a yellow.

Looking ahead, Cerro Largo will visit Vitória on April 23, while Universidad Católica will host Defensa y Justicia the following day in a key clash for Group B.