Chelsea target Bernard bags hat-trick

Rio de Janeiro, Feb 27 (IANS)

Bernard, who is reportedly being targeted by Chelsea, scored a hat-trick as Brazil’s Atletico Mineiro swept to a 5-2 away victory over Argentina’s Arsenal Sarandi in their Copa Libertadores group stage clash.

The 20-year-old cancelled out Julio Furch’s opener with a seventh-minute strike before adding another two goals just after half-time at the Julio Grondona Stadium Tuesday, reports Xinhua.

Two-time FIFA World Player of the Year Ronaldinho helped set up four of his team’s goals but missed the chance to cap a fine display when he fired an 87th minute penalty against the crossbar.

Former Manchester City striker Jo and one-time Brazil international forward Diego Tardelli were also on the scoresheet as Atletico kept their unblemished record intact at the top of Group 3.

“We didn’t think it would be such an attacking game but we are happy with the way it turned out. It’s still early in the tournament and we don’t want to be burdened by the responsibility of being favourites. But little by little we are improving,” Ronaldinho said.

In other Libertadores matches, reigning Argentine champions Velez Sarsfield defeated hosts Penarol 1-0 while Real Atletico also scored a 1-0 away victory over Deportes Tolima.