LDU clinical, take strong Libertadores lead over São Paulo 🎥 | OneFootball

São Paulo found itself in a difficult position to reach the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores-2025.

Challenging the altitude of Quito, Crespo's team was having a good second half at Casa Blanca.

But it wasn't lethal. And saw LDU secure the 2 x 0 on the night of this Thursday (18).

The Ecuadorian team - the nemesis of the current champion Botafogo - found itself in a good position after ending SPFC's 17-game unbeaten streak in the Libertadores.

See the highlights of the match below.

Did little in the 1st half

SPFC had a positive start by not suffering the expected pressure from the hosts.

But LDU was lethal at 15', when defender Allala launched Ramírez.

And he - unmarked - beat Rafael.

Crespo's team couldn't maintain productive ball possession.

The absence of a natural playmaker was evident.

And without being able to count on Ferreira from the start, the Tricolor was also "orphaned" of more unpredictability to overcome the rival's marking.

The consequence? Valle had no trouble before the break.

If you don't score...

Luciano was the protagonist at the start of the second half.

The first real chance for the Tricolor was with him - but there was an offside.

He had another chance shortly after, but lacked precision after a great pass from Pablo Maia.

Marcos Antônio forced Valle into a great save. The game was in Crespo's team's favor.

Then the home team was lethal for the first time in the second half.

Punishing São Paulo with Michael Estrada (78').

Ferreirinha started to take responsibility upon himself.

He almost scored at 87', but Valle prevented it.

SPFC fought. But indeed found itself in a tough spot for the return leg.

They will need their fans. And more competence to continue the quest for the fourth title.

And now❓

The return match will be next Thursday (25). And will take place at MorumBIS.

The Ecuadorian team will have the advantage of being able to lose by up to one goal.

São Paulo will only qualify in regular time if they win by at least three goals.

A Tricolor victory by two goals will ensure a penalty shootout.

The winner will face Palmeiras or River Plate in the semis.

Both teams will play again on Sunday (21).

LDU (3rd) will host Universidad Católica (6th) for the 29th round of Liga Pro.

Meanwhile, SPFC (7th) will visit Santos (16th) at Vila Belmiro for the 24th round of the Brasileirão. See the updated standings here.

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

📸 Franklin Jacome - 2025 Getty Images