Libertad, Cristal shine

Libertad stayed unbeaten in the second stage of the Copa Libertadores, while Sporting Cristal also won on Thursday.

Paraguayan side Libertad made it two wins from as many starts in the second stage by defeating Brazilian team Palmeiras 2-0.

Pablo Velazquez put Libertad in front with a powerful header in the 10th minute of the contest, before Pedro Benitez sealed the points early in the second half when he nodded past Palmeiras goalkeeper Fernando.

The win keeps Libertad on top of Group 2 with six points, while Palmeiras trail second-placed Sporting Cristal by goal difference.

Sporting Cristal picked up their first points of the second phase with their own 2-0 triumph over winless Tigre.

Renzo Shepu put Sporting Cristal in front on 29 minutes, before Carlos Lobaton's second half strike sealed the win for the Peruvian side.

In the only other match on Thursday, Sao Paulo came from behind to defeat The Strongest 2-1 in their Group 3 clash.