Bolivian club The Strongest defeated Venezuelan Deportivo Táchira 2-1 in their first-round qualifier for the 2026 Copa Libertadores, played tonight at Hernando Siles Stadium. According to the Argentine News Agency, the Bolivian team took the lead with two penalty goals: midfielder Jaime Arrascaita scored in the 11th minute of the second half, and forward Víctor Abrego scored in the 37th. Earlier, in the 18th minute of the second half, the score was tied by midfielder Carlos Calzadilla. With this win, the aurinegro team gains a slight advantage for the decisive leg of the series, which will be held next Tuesday, February 10, at the Polideportivo de Pueblo Nuevo stadium at 21:30 (Argentine time). The first goal of the game came in the 11th minute of the second half from a penalty kicked by midfielder Jaime Arrascaita, who opened his right foot to make a low shot that was guessed by goalkeeper Jesús Camargo, although he could not contain it. The Venezuelan team, coached by former Uruguayan player Álvaro Recoba, equalized seven minutes later with a corner kick to the first post by midfielder Jairo Villalpando, which was headed into the goal in the air by Carlos Calzadilla. Another penalty restored the home team's lead when they were in the 37th minute of the second half, and forward Víctor Abrego shot low, aiming for the left post of Camargo, who this time chose his right post.