Atletico Mineiro advance to Libertadores semifinals

Belo Horizonte - Goalkeeper Victor saved a stoppage-time penalty to help Atletico Mineiro earn a dramatic 1-1 draw with Tijuana and hand the Brazilian club a berth in the Copa Libertadores semifinals on away-goals.

Tijuana, who could only manage a 2-2 draw at home in last week’s first leg, looked set for a thrilling victory Thursday when Leonardo Silva brought down Pablo Aguilar in the 90th minute.

But Victor kept out Colombian striker Duvier Riasco’s spot-kick with his feet to keep alive Atletico’s hopes of winning a maiden Libertadores trophy.

“We weren’t at our best tonight but we managed to fight until the end and we owe it to Victor for his great save,” Atletico’s Brazil international midfielder Bernard said.

Riascos had given his side the lead in the 25th minute with a low first-time finish after Oliver Ortiz’s cross. Atletico centre back Rever then made it 1-1 by volleying in a long-range Ronaldinho free-kick five minutes before the interval.

Atletico will meet Argentine outfit Newell’s Old Boys in the semifinals with the first leg to be played in Rosario July 3.