Boca Juniors have one hand on the Copa Libertadores trophy as they blanked 10-man Gremio 3-0 in the first leg at La Bombonera.

And just like the semifinals, it was a Juan Roman Riquelme free kick that got things started. The playmaker's cross found Martin Palermo open on the back post. Palermo crossed to an open Rodrigo Palacio and it was 1-0 in the 18th.

Replays did show the goal offside, but the goal stood.

There would however, be no arguing Boca's dominance, particularly in the second half.

It was all Boca, and became more so when Goiano was sent off for a reckless high boot.

After a series of gilt-edged chances for Palacio, one cleared off the line, Riquelme finally made Boca's advantage pay in the 73rd and neatly fired a free-kick near post after the wall had moved.

In the 89th, only seconds after Gremio had just missed one of their few chances, Riquelme dribbled through a handful of defenders and fired a rocket that was parried to the corner, but not out.

The ensuing high cross into the box was headed by Ledesma high towards goal. Two Gremio defenders were unable to clear it off the line and the ball dropped in off Patricio for an own goal.

Boca will takes its 3-0 lead to Porto Alegre knowing their 6th Copa Libertadores title is there for the taking.


The above article was corrected. The original text stated the away goals rule was in effect, but the away goals rule does not apply in the Copa Libertadores Finals.
Tim Vickery column - BBC

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