Bahia beaten in Chile, left chasing in the Libertadores | OneFootball

Bahia was defeated 1-0 by O'Higgins this Wednesday (18), at the El Teniente stadium, in the first leg of the second phase of the Libertadores. Rogério Ceni's team had more ball possession and control of the game, but couldn't convert their dominance into goals and will now need to overturn the disadvantage in the return match in Salvador.

The Bahian team finished the match with 59% possession and 437 passes exchanged, compared to 268 from the opponent. They also had more corners (6 to 2) and better passing accuracy. Despite this, they had fewer shots on target: six shots in total, none on goal. O'Higgins, more direct, hit three shots and capitalized on one to secure the victory.

In the second half, Ceni tried to change the scenario with the introduction of Willian José and other offensive players. The best chance came from Jean Lucas, who received a cross from Juba and shot freely, but missed the target. The team pressed in the final minutes but was stopped by the Chilean defense and lack of precision.

O'Higgins also posed a threat with aerial plays and relied on counterattacks. The only goal of the match was scored just four minutes into the game by Francisco González, with a beautiful shot from outside the area.

With this result, Bahia needs to win by two goals in the return match to advance directly. If they win by one goal, the decision will go to penalties. The decisive match is scheduled for next week at Arena Fonte Nova.

The clash marks the beginning of the tricolor's journey in the continental competition in 2026. Riding high in the state scene, Bahia will now have to show strength at home to stay alive in the quest for a spot in the group stage.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

📸 Ricardo Moreira - 2026 Getty Images