Corinthians cruise past Santa Fe to top group
Corinthians put in a dominant display at Neo Quimica Arena to claim a second straight victory in Group E of the Copa Libertadores, defeating Independiente Santa Fe 2–0.
The Brazilian side has established itself as the team to beat in Group E having opened its campaign with a strong win over Platense, and was the overwhelming favourite coming into this match.
The first half was tighter than the scoreline suggested, though and Santa Fe had their moments, particularly through veteran striker Hugo Rodallega, whose best opportunity came when he failed to connect cleanly with a cross from Omar Frasica on the left.
The Colombian side was largely unable to test Hugo Souza, though, and only managed one shot on target throughout the contest, with Corinthians breaking the deadlock six minutes into the second half.
Raniele slotted home on 51 minutes, capitalising on a lapse of concentration in the Santa Fe defence to finish calmly past the advancing Mosquera Marmolejo.
The visitors briefly threatened a response but were ultimately undone when Gustavo Henrique sealed the result on 80 minutes, getting in front of Helibelton Palacios to send an improvised yet spectacular volley into the back of the net.
The result leaves Corinthians top of Group E on six points, with Santa Fe and Penarol level on one apiece and Platense still to open its account.
