RIO DE JANEIRO, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- Botafogo were held to a goalless home draw by Sao Paulo in the first leg of their all-Brazilian Copa Libertadores quarterfinal on Wednesday.
The hosts controlled almost two thirds of the total possession and had 22 shots on goal compared to Sao Paulo's six in a largely one-sided affair at Rio de Janeiro's Olympic Stadium.
But Botafogo paid the price for wasteful finishing and a series of fine saves from Sao Paulo goalkeeper Rafael Pires.
"Today, the problem we had was an opponent that played with 11 men at the back," Botafogo manager Artur Jorge said.
"We played a great game and it would have been enough to win if we had been more efficient with our finishing. But we were looking for the win and the other team came not to lose."
Sao Paulo manager Luis Zubeldia admitted Botafogo were the superior team but lavished praise in his players' ability to stay on level terms.
"We had difficulty keeping the ball because of their pressing," he said. "But we showed great commitment and an ability to withstand pressure. I congratulate my players for their effort, especially in the second half when they lifted their level."
The return fixture will be played at Sao Paulo's Morumbi Stadium next Wednesday. ■
