Defending champion Santos lose in Copa Libertadores

Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), April 26 (Xinhua-ANI): Defending Copa Libertadores champion Santos suffered a 2-1 defeat to Bolivar in the first leg of their round of 16 battle in La Paz on Wednesday.

Midfielder Jhasmani Campos opened the scoring in the first minute of the match when his 25m free-kick hit the crossbar and rebounded in off goalkeeper Rafael.

Maranhao equalized on 34 minutes when he bundled in a shot from close range after Elano's dipping free-kick was saved by Marcos Arguello.

But Campos capped a brilliant solo display by making it 2-1 with another goal from a set-piece in the 74th-minute.

"The intention was to score at least three goals or more," Campos told Fox Sports after the match.

"We were looking to beat Santos because we know they do not like playing here. Winning is what matters, but we played great rivals - the defending champions. Scoring against them is very difficult."

Brazil's international playmaker Neymar struggled to make an impact, noticeably suffering the effects of the 3600m altitude and a head cold.

The away goal means Santos only needs to win the return match 1-0 to advance to the quarter finals.

In Porto Alegre, Brazilian rivals Internacional and Fluminense drew 0-0 with Jesus Datolo missing a second-half penalty for the hosts.

After a first half of few opportunities the game sprang to life after the interval.

It appeared Internacional would break the deadlock in the 57th-minute when Brazil striker Damiao was brought down in the area by an Edinho tackle.

But Fluminense goalkeeper Diego Cavalieri made a hero of himself by keeping out Datolo's spot-kick with a stunning save.

Former Manchester City striker Jo had a chance to put the home team ahead in stoppage time but his low drive rebounded off the post. (Xinhua-ANI)