With a solid 1-0 victory over Sydney FC of Australia, Saprissa has advanced to the semifinal.  Local analysts gave the Australians an edge in the first half of play, but that domination did not result in any goal.  Saprissa improved in the second half and the winning goal was scored by Cristian Bolaños in the second minute of play.   Saprissa had several other chances, but great play by Sydney’s goal keeper prevented them from getting an insurance goal. 

On Thursday, Saprissa will face European champions Liverpool, who are favored to win the cup. Al Ittihad of Saudi Arabia beat African champions Al Ahly of Egypt on Sunday.  They will face Brazil’s Sao Paulo in the other semifinal on Wednesday.