Colo Colo and Racing Club played to a 1-1 draw on Tuesday in a Group E match of the Copa Libertadores, held behind closed doors at the Estadio Monumental David Arellano in Santiago. The match took place without spectators due to the tragic events of April 11, when two people lost their lives before the game between the Chilean side and Brazil’s Fortaleza.

Colo Colo and Racing draw in an empty Monumental

In the eerie silence of the empty stadium, Colo Colo opened the scoring early with a brilliant individual effort. In the 9th minute, young winger Lucas Cepeda unleashed a low-driven shot from outside the box that left Argentine goalkeeper Gabriel Arias with no chance, sparking celebration among the home players.

Jorge Almirón’s squad dominated much of the first half, creating clear chances and showing defensive stability. In the 50th minute, Paraguayan referee Juan Benítez disallowed a second goal by Javier Correa for offside, after a well-taken finish.

Racing, coached by Gustavo Costas, gradually gained momentum in the second half. Despite their efforts, the visitors repeatedly encountered a solid Colo Colo backline that seemed to shut down every attacking lane.

However, persistence paid off for La Academia in the dying minutes. In the 86th minute, midfielder Martín Barrios capitalized on a defensive lapse to score the equalizer, silencing what would have been a roaring celebration had fans been allowed in.

With this result, Racing moves to the top of Group E with four points, tied with Colombia’s Atlético Bucaramanga, who trail on goal difference. Colo Colo sits third with two points, while Fortaleza remains at the bottom with no points.

Group action continues Wednesday as Atlético Bucaramanga hosts the Brazilian side in a crucial third-round match that could shake up the standings.