Bolívar thrash Independiente 4-0 to reclaim top spot

Bolívar reclaimed the lead in Bolivia’s Professional Division with a commanding 4-0 victory over Independiente at Sucre’s Olímpico Patria stadium.

The visitors controlled the match from the opening minute, keeping possession and creating early chances. Dorny Romero came close before the 10-minute mark after a pass from Tonino Melgar, while Dairon Asprilla later had a goal ruled out for offside.

Bolívar took the lead in the 24th minute. Melgar again provided the assist, sending Billy Arce through one-on-one with goalkeeper Johan Gutiérrez. The Ecuadorian finished past the advancing goalkeeper to make it 1-0.

Independiente threatened from a free kick when Willi Barbosa’s effort struck the post in the 34th minute. Barbosa missed another opportunity six minutes later, and Bolívar punished the hosts before halftime. Arce sent a cross into the area, and Romero converted from close range in the 43rd minute.

The result lifted Bolívar to 39 points and returned the club to the summit. The match report says Arce scored twice, with Bruno Miranda completing the four-goal victory.