By Robbie Blakeley, Senior Contributing Reporter
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Vasco and Fluminense both picked up three points in the second round of the 2012 Taça Libertadores group stage. On Tuesday, Vasco managed to sneak past Allianz Lima of Peru 3-2, while last night Flu battled to a 2-1 victory over Argentine side Boca Juniors in Buenos Aires, ending Boca’s 36 game unbeaten streak.
In a markedly resilient performance, Fred gave the Carioca side the lead after just nine minutes, flicking in Deco’s free-kick. It was difficult for either side to gain a stranglehold as the referee proved slightly too whistle-friendly, but after the break Boca equalized when Cavalieri could only parry Riquelme’s free-kick and Leandro Somoza poked home the rebound.
But all was not lost for Flu when just minutes later Deco volleyed home Wellington Nem’s measured cross. The result put Flu top of Group 4 on six points.
Vasco were made to work a little harder as Alecsandro missed two penalties on an extraordinary evening. Having fallen behind early, an own goal brought Vasco level before Dedé put them ahead.
After missing two spot-kicks, Vasco were incredibly awarded a third, tucked away by Juninho. The visitors chalked up a consolation, but couldn’t stage a full comeback as Vasco got their first points of the tournament on the board.
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