Chilean side Palestino drew 0-0 with Deportivo Riestra in Buenos Aires for the first group stage match of the Copa Sudamericana. The game at Estadio Nuevo Gasómetro featured few scoring chances, interruptions, and a low tempo. Palestino earned a point away in Group F.
Palestino made its Copa Sudamericana debut with a 0-0 draw against Deportivo Riestra, the home side at Buenos Aires' Estadio Nuevo Gasómetro. Coached by Cristián Muñoz, the La Cisterna team played on Tuesday at 18:00 Chile time.
The first half saw divided play and physical action down the flanks. Palestino created the clearest chances: Nelson da Silva shot wide from the center of the area, Jonathan Benítez lifted his shot over the bar at the 29th minute, and Ian Garguez had his effort blocked. Riestra threatened from set pieces, but halftime arrived goalless after four minutes of added time. Francisco Montes was yellow-carded at the 14th minute.
In the second half, Riestra brought on Jonathan Herrera and Alexander Díaz. Palestino made forced changes at the 56th minute: Jason León for the injured Benítez, and Nicolás Meza for Francisco Montes. Yellows went to Nelson da Silva (79') and Bryan Carrasco (86').
Palestino held 56% possession to Riestra's 44%, but both teams managed just one shot on target. Group F also includes Gremio and Montevideo City Torque. Palestino will host the latter next.
