A dominant start with a deserved reward

Independiente del Valle secured a 1-0 victory over Mushuc Runa on Tuesday in the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16. The only goal came from Argentine forward Claudio Spinelli, who headed home a precise free-kick cross from Patrik Mercado.

Coached by Spaniard Javier Rabanal, the home side capitalized on their strong form both in the Ecuadorian league and in continental competition. Still, the visitors, struggling in Liga Pro and recently knocked out of the Copa Ecuador, showed more resistance than expected.

Argentine goalkeeper Guillo Villar played a key role for the “Giant Killers,” stopping a dangerous shot from Carlos Orejuela in one of the few threats created by the “Ponchito.”