BUENOS AIRES: The Copa Libertadores Final remains wide open after SuperClassico rivals Boca Juniors and River Plate played out a dramatic 2-2 draw in a rain-delayed first leg on Sunday.

Boca went ahead after 34 minutes when Ramon Abila followed up his own blocked drive with a ferocious shot that keeper Franco Armani got a hand to but could not stop.

Their lead lasted less than two minutes as Lucas Pratto controlled a through ball before firing in an angled drive past Agustin Rossi from 12 meters out.

The goals sparked the game into life and although River looked the more dangerous, it was Boca who again went ahead seconds before halftime. Dario Benedetto, who had come on to replace the injured Cristian Pavon, headed home a freekick lofted hopefully into the box.

The second half started at the same pace and River drew level in the 61st minute thanks to an own goal by Carlos Izquierdoz who deflected a long upfield ball past his own goalkeeper under pressure from Pratto.

Benedetto had a superb chance to win the game in the final minute but his point-blank shot was well saved by Armani.

The second leg of the final, South America’s equivalent of the Champions League, will take place at River’s Monumental stadium on Nov. 24.

River Plate defender Javier Pinola said: “It was the game that everyone expected, tough with lots of fight. Small details could have led to a win but we fought hard and a draw was the fair result.”

River were also hindered by the absence of their coach Marcelo Gallardo from the stadium, who was banned for disobeying a suspension during the semi-final win over holders Gremio.

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