Estudiantes Thrash Universidad Católica to Reach Copa Libertadores Quarterfinals

Estudiantes de La Plata secured their spot in the Copa Libertadores quarterfinals with a decisive 0-3 victory over Universidad Católica in Santiago. The Argentine club overcame the Chilean hosts, advancing with a 4-1 aggregate score after the first leg ended in a 1-1 draw.

Joaquín Correa set the tone for Estudiantes, breaking the deadlock in the 44th minute with a precise shot from the edge of the box. The goal came against the run of play, as the match had been evenly contested with both teams showing early imprecision. However, Estudiantes began to assert more possession as the first half progressed.

Guido Carrillo was the star of the second half, extending Estudiantes' lead in the 53rd minute with a header from a cross by Eros Mancuso. Universidad Católica, hampered by multiple absences including their top scorer Fernando Zampedri, struggled to find a foothold. Despite creating some chances, their efforts lacked the necessary danger to trouble Estudiantes' goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.

Carrillo sealed the win and his brace in the 83rd minute, finishing clinically inside the area. The victory sets up a quarterfinal clash for Estudiantes against either Corinthians or Rosario Central, who will decide their tie on Thursday.