Internacional beats Chivas in Sudamericana semis

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GUADALAJARA, Mexico (AP) -- Nilmar Da Silva and Alex scored second half goals to lead Brazil's Internacional past Chivas 2-0 on Wednesday in the first leg of their Copa Sudamericana semifinals series.

Da Silva evaded two defenders to put the visitors ahead in the 69th minute with a well struck, low shot, while Alex curled a 22-meter free-kick in the 78th to seal the win.

Internacional can now advance to the finals with a draw, or even a one goal loss, in next Wednesday's return match at home. In the other semifinal, Argentinos Juniors plays Estudiantes de La Plata.

"There are still 90 minutes left to play, we will try to come back, we are a better playing away from home," Chivas striker Omar Arellano said.

Arellano had three great scoring opportunities, including one in the 45th, when he was unmarked with just goalkeeper Lauro Batista to beat.

"I need to be able to score more, I lacked that today," Arellano said. "But you are never going to be able to score on every chance you get, I need to get back to work."