Santos did just enough to claim a victory over Quito and put one foot ahead in the quarterfinals of the Copa Libertadores.
With goals from Soteldo and Marinho, Peixe beat the Ecuadorian team 2-1 on Tuesday night at the Casa Blanca Stadium. Julio was the scorer for the Ecuadorian side.
Without coach Cuca, assistant Cuquinha and five other players all absent due to covid-19, Peixe still put out a good fight against their opponents.
It was no surprise that their victory came via their two main players. In addition to them, goalkeeper John was another stand out name.
Marinho scored the winning goal for Santos in the second half after he was brought down in the area. However, that was not his only importance in the game. He was also crucial in marking and the continuous press that troubled the LDU goalkeeper in the second half. He was one of the stars of the game and took his tally to dedication 18 goals this season.
The return leg is next Tuesday in Vila Belmiro. Santos only need a draw to qualify and may even lose 1-0, due to the criteria of goals scored away from home. The LDU must win by two or more goals difference, or by one goal difference in scores from 3-2 upwards. A 2-1 win for Quito takes the game to penalties.
Before the return game against LDU, Santos have a game in Brazilian Championship where they face Sport also in Vila Belmiro.
