Grêmio played later in the evening on Thursday night but also joined fellow Brazilian side Atlético Paranaense in opening their Copa Libertadores group stage campaign with a 1-0 win.
Paraguayan Cristian Riveros scored the only goal of the game in the second half against Uruguayan outfit Nacional, the former Sunderland midfielder headed in to earn a superb away victory.
Although it was a fantastic win, Grêmio were indebted to the Urguayan’s missing numerous chances.
Tricolor’s were also thankful to goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe, whilst defensive midfielder Edinho earned the man of the match award.
Nacional are one of the best-fancied teams in this year’s Libertadores so Grêmio’s win at the Estadio Gran Parque Central puts down a marker for the team which finished second in the Brasileirão last year.
Grêmio’s victory sees them lie joint top of Group 6, level on points and on goal difference with Atlético Nacional.
Coincidently those two sides will face each other in the next round of matches, the Brazil side will host Colombian team Atlético Nacional on February 26th.
This opening group stage win will give Grêmio great confidence that they can achieve something special in this year’s competition.
