The Copa Libertadores resumed after the break for the World Cup, and it did so with marked parity. The 0-0 draw between Rosario Central and Corinthians, held at the Gigante de Arroyito, closed the first week of the round of 16 and completed an unprecedented statistic in the competition.
Of the seven first-leg matches that were played, all ended in a draw. This peculiarity occurred because the match between Deportes Tolima and Independiente del Valle was rescheduled and has not yet been played, leaving the series pending.
All round of 16 matches ended in draws
The streak of draws began on Tuesday, with the return of international activity. Estudiantes and Universidad Católica drew 1-1, while Fluminense and Independiente Rivadavia ended 0-0 at the Maracanã. This latter result led to the departure of Argentine coach Luis Zubeldía from the Brazilian team.
On Wednesday, the trend continued. Platense and Coquimbo Unido finished 1-1, as did Palmeiras and Cerro Porteño. In both matches, the goals that determined the equality came late in the game.
The day also featured the 1-1 draw between Cruzeiro and Flamengo, in a match marked by incidents reported in the vicinity of the Mineirão stadium before the start of the game.
Finally, on Thursday, a perfect first week in terms of equality was completed. Mirassol and Liga de Quito drew 1-1, while Rosario Central and Corinthians closed the day with a 0-0.
Five 1-1 draws and two 0-0s
With seven matches played, the balance of the round of 16 of the Libertadores consisted of five 1-1 draws and two scoreless ties.
