Uruguayan champions Defensor Sporting claimed a precious 1-0 victory over Col****ian champions America de Cali, in the inaugurating match of Group 4 of the Copa Libertadores.

Argentine midfielder Julio Marchant was the man-of-the-match, as he provided the service for his teammates throughout the entire ninety minutes. The former Boca Juniors player was at the heart of Defensor's best attacks.

The first half was played under torrential rainfall at the legendary Centenario stadium in Montevideo, and this was the main reason why the fans stayed away.

As the minutes ticked by Defensor completely played in America's half, and it seemed that at any moment they would take the lead.

After much pressure, Defensor finally went ahead in the 37th minute, when Pablo Gaglianone beat America goalkeeper Julian Mesa with a fine header.

After the break the Col****ians picked up their game, as they searched for an equalizer. They came closest to scoring through Gustavo Ramos, but his close-range effort was kept out by Martin Silva.

America continued to threaten the Defensor goal, but the hard working Uruguayans managed to hang on to three vital home points.

The other two teams in their group are Brazilian champions Sao Paulo and Independiente Medellin.