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Tigre Survive Nacional Fightback to Reach Copa Sudamericana Round of 16
Tigre endured a difficult night at home despite falling 2-1 to Nacional, but the commanding 3-0 victory from the first leg proved enough to secure a place in the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16, where Montevideo City Torque awaits.
The tie appeared all but decided after Tigre's emphatic win in Montevideo, but Nacional nearly turned the series on its head. The Uruguayan side claimed a 2-1 victory at José Dellagiovanna Stadium, yet the Argentine club advanced 4-2 on aggregate to book its place in the Copa Sudamericana Round of 16.
With a packed stadium and heightened security following the incidents that occurred during the first leg, both teams produced an intense contest as the visitors came out determined to chase an unlikely comeback from the opening whistle.
Nacional Dreamed of an Unforgettable Comeback
The side managed by Jorge Bava struck early. In the 11th minute, Maximiliano Gómez capitalized on a misplaced pass from Gonzalo Martínez before firing a low finish past goalkeeper Felipe Zenobio.
The Uruguayan club maintained the pressure, and before the half-hour mark Maximiliano Silvera bundled home a low cross. After a VAR review, the goal was confirmed, giving the visitors renewed belief that a remarkable comeback might still be possible.
However, Tigre regained control after halftime thanks to the leadership of Gonzalo Martínez, who dictated the tempo and helped the Argentine side settle into the match.
Santiago López Seals Qualification
The hosts thought they had found their breakthrough earlier in the second half, but a goal was ruled out for offside following another VAR review. Santiago López, however, made sure his next opportunity counted.
In the 81st minute, a perfectly weighted pass from Nahuel Banegas found the forward in space. Santiago López calmly finished to score his first goal for Tigre and seal the club's place in the next round with a 4-2 aggregate victory.
Nacional pushed forward during the closing stages, introducing Pavel Núñez and Santiago Silva in search of another goal, but the visitors were unable to break through again.
With the result, Tigre keeps its Copa Sudamericana campaign alive and will now face fellow Uruguayan club Montevideo City Torque in the Round of 16, while Nacional turns its full attention back to domestic competition after its continental elimination.
