Argentinian champions Banfield beat Mexico's Morelia 2-1 in the opening round of Copa Libertadores Group Six.

James Rodriguez and Rodolfo Battion were on target as Banfield responded to the dismissal of Morelia midfielder Adrian Alderete for an elbow.

Luis Rey reduced the deficit in stoppage time, but it was mere consolation for the visitors.

Velez Sarsfield claimed a 2-0 win over nine-man Cruzerio in Group Seven.

Gilberto was dismissed in the second minute and Santiago Silva scored three minutes later before Gil was sent off for a second bookable offence and Juan Manuel Martinez made the points secure for Velez.

In Group Two, Washington scored twice as Brazil's Sao Paulo defeated Monterrey of Mexico 2-0.

In La Paz, Peruvian giants Alianza Lima hammered hosts Bolivar 3-1 in Group Three.

Meanwhile, Emelec of Ecuador qualified for the group stages by defeating Newell's Old Boys of Argentina 2-1, with the winners' goals coming through Joao Rojas and Jose Luis Quinonez.

Emelec will compete in Group Five against Brazil's Internacional, Uruguayan side Cerro and Ecuadorian champions Deportivo Quito.