BRA - Universo lead in South America after win over Minas

BRASILIA (South American Club Championship) - Reigning Brazilian Campeonato Nacional champions Universo edged out compatriots Minas Tenis 83-78 on Thursday to take sole possession of the lead in the South American Club Championship.

Ratto scored 19 points for Universo, while Minas playmaker Luiz Felipe Lemes provided the resistence with 24.

Defending champions Boca Juniors recovered from defeat in the opening round with an 81-76 victory over fellow Argentinians Penarol.

Argentina international Leonardo Gutierrez scored 26 points and grabbed six rebounds for Boca, while Sebastian Rodriguez hit 22 for Penarol.

"We are two old acquaintances, therefore it was a very hard-fought game," said Penarol's Sebastian Rodriguez. "I only hope that this defeat does not end our dream of winning the title."

Venezuela's Duros de Lara won 83-67 over Paraguay's Sol de America - their second defeat in as many games.

After two rounds, Universo top the table on four points, with Boca, Penarol and Duros are a point adrift in a tie for second.

On Friday, leaders Universo host Duros, while Boca face San Jose and Penarol take on Minas Tenis.

FIBA