Central Córdoba secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Cerro Largo in Montevideo, booking their place in the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16 for the first time in the club's history. With a solid and effective performance, the team coached by Omar De Felippe took full advantage of their chances, putting behind the bitter memories of their Copa Libertadores campaign.

The match, held at the Campeón del Siglo stadium, started with intensity from the opening minutes. In the 15th minute, Matías Perelló opened the scoring after a great assist from Matías Godoy, sneaking in at the back post to put the Argentinians ahead. Cerro Largo failed to recover, and things worsened when Nicolás Bertocchi was sent off just before halftime.

Central Córdoba seals ticket to Round of 16 and sets up all-Argentine clash with Lanús

In the second half, Central Córdoba managed the tempo and quickly extended their lead in the 58th minute when Perelló turned provider, setting up Leonardo Heredia, who netted the second goal. In the closing minutes, with Cerro Largo pushing forward, Heredia once again stepped up, beating goalkeeper Gino Santilli in a one-on-one and assisting Diego Barrera for the third and final goal.

With this win, the Santiago-based side joins the tournament’s final 16, redeeming themselves after being eliminated from the Libertadores group stage, where despite a historic 2-1 win over Flamengo at the Maracanã, they were knocked out on goal difference.

In the next round, Central Córdoba will face fellow Argentine club Lanús, champions of the 2013 Copa Sudamericana. Coached by Guillermo Barros Schelotto, Lanús brings international experience and a strong squad, making them a tough opponent for De Felippe's team.

This all-Argentine clash promises to deliver plenty of excitement as both clubs look to continue their dream run in the 2025 edition of the tournament.