ASUNCION, Nov. 23 (Xinhua) -- Argentina's Racing secured its first international trophy in 36 years on Saturday with a 3-1 victory over Brazilian side Cruzeiro in the Copa Sudamericana final.
Gaston Martirena gave Racing the lead at La Olla in Paraguayan capital Asuncion in the 15th minute, when he took a touch after Juan Fernando Quintero's pass before curling an improbable 25-yard effort into the far corner.
The Buenos Aires outfit doubled its lead five minutes later through Adrian Martinez, who slid home at the far post following Maximiliano Salas' cross from the right wing.
Kaio Jorge reduced the deficit just after halftime by heading home from close range after his initial attempt was blocked by goalkeeper Gabriel Arias.
Roger Martinez put the result beyond doubt as he slotted a cool finish past veteran goalkeeper Cassio after Juan Nardoni's through-ball on the counterattack.
"We faced a very tough rival today but we deserve this title for the way we played throughout the entire competition," Quintero said.
"I can't speak highly enough of this group. Every player contributed to this and we are champions not by chance, but because of hard work," added the Colombia international midfielder.
The result marked Racing's first continental triumph since 1988, when it also beat Cruzeiro in the final of the now-defunct Supercopa Libertadores. ■
