The Venezuelan Deportivo Lara gives surprise in the Copa Libertadores 2018

The Venezuelan Deportivo Lara caused a surprise in their debut in the 2018 Copa Libertadores with a 1-0 victory at home against the Argentine Independiente, seven times champion of the tournament, with a goal from Colombian midfielder Carlos Sierra.

Independiente vs. Deportivo Lara: This is how they played

The "King of Cups," winner of the tournament in 1964, 1965, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, and 1984, returns with the title of the 2017 Copa Sudamericana champion, although burdened with having lost the Recopa Sudamericana last week against the Brazilian Gremio.

"The Copa Libertadores holds a special magic for us," said Independiente coach Ariel Holan.

The Lara is expected to be one of the dominant clubs this season in Venezuelan football after reaching the final of last season's campaign against champion Monagas. However, the team coached by Leo González has gone four games without a win.

Independiente de Avellaneda vs. Deportivo Lara: Confirmed lineups:

PRE-MATCH

The author of the winning goal against Banfield was Martín Benítez, the man who missed the decisive penalty against Grêmio.

Independiente de Avellaneda vs. Deportivo Lara: Confirmed Lineups: