Deportivo Cali defeat Bolivar in Copa Sudamericana clash

Deportivo Cali defeated Bolivar 4-0 in their Copa Sudamericana second round first leg match here.

Wednesday night's lopsided scoreline should be enough to see Cali through to the third round, although a normally challenging trip to the Bolivian capital La Paz and an altitude of 3,600 metres must still be overcome in the second leg, reports EFE news agency.

John Mosquera opened the scoring in the 31st minute after a nightmare moment from Bolivar goalkeeper Garcia, who was robbed by Nicolas Benedetti to allow Mosquera to convert into an open net.

Mosquera then returned the favour shortly after the restart, cutting the ball back for Benedetti who scored past the hapless Garcia with a cool, first-time finish in the 51st minute.

Cali's domination was finally being reflected in the scoreline and they soon extended their advantage through Jose Sand, Mosquera again setting up the chance with strong wingplay.

Cali could, and maybe should, have scored even more goals, and Bolivar can consider themselves fortunate to only be trailing by four ahead of the second leg.

Matias Cabrera adding the finishing touch for Cali in stoppage time, as the Colombian side again capitalized on the ample space afforded them by the Bolivar defense.

The second leg will be played on August 2 in La Paz, Bolivia.

--IANS

ajb/mr