Colombian champions Independiente Medellin began their 2010 Copa Libertadores campaign with 1-1 draw at Cerro Porteño in Uruguay.
Although the draw is a good result for Medellin, Leonel Alvarez’s men could have done better if they had taken advantage of the many chances they created in front of Cerro’s goal.
The one opportunity that was converted into a goal occurred at 17 minutes, when poor defense allowed Felipe Pardo to combine with a teammate before sending a well-aimed strike past the opposing goalkeeper.
The lead wouldn’t last however, as a left-winged effort from Pablo Zeballo surprised Medellin keeper Aldo Bobadilla and sailed in at the fast post in the 56th minute.
Medellin were the better team in the last half hour but a lack of precision up front allowed the hosts to at least secure one point.
Medellin and Cerro share Group A of the Copa Libertadores with Corinthians of Brazil and Racing Club of Uruguay, who play their first match on February 24.