Scarpa stunner sees Palmeiras past Gremio
A spectacular goal from Gustavo Scarpa saw Palmeiras edge Gremio 1-0 in the first leg of its Copa Libertadores quarter-final on Wednesday (AEST).
Scarpa produced a tremendous 30-yard strike to give Palmeiras an away win in Porto Alegre, where Felipe Melo was sent off in the second half for the visitor.
Still, the moment of brilliance from Scarpa was enough for Luiz Felipe Scolari's men to take an advantage into the return leg.
Scarpa drilled a left-footed rocket past Gremio goalkeeper Paulo Victor and in via the underside of the crossbar in the 31st minute.
Both teams had their chances in the second half, with Dudu twice going close for Palmeiras, including hitting the outside of the post.
Former Juventus midfielder Melo was shown a second yellow card in the 77th minute, the 36-year-old reduced to tears after being sent off.
However, Palmeiras sat deep in the closing stages, holding out Gremio to secure its victory.
