The 2026 Copa Libertadores is officially underway, and the opening matchday delivered drama and a clear trend: road warriors ruled. In a stunning twist for South American football, where home advantage is famously fierce, visiting teams dominated, with only one side securing a victory in front of their own fans.

Argentine giants Boca Juniors made a powerful statement in their return to the competition after a two-year absence. Securing a crucial away win against Chile's Universidad Católica, they immediately stamped their authority on Group D and sent a message to their rivals.

Meanwhile, Brazilian and Ecuadorian contenders Cruzeiro and LDU Quito also navigated tough away fixtures successfully, each grinding out narrow victories. These results set the stage for intriguing follow-up clashes, with Cruzeiro now preparing to host Universidad Católica and LDU Quito set to welcome Brazil's Mirassol.

The romance of the cup was alive in Mendoza, where Independiente de Rivadavia celebrated a dream debut. In their first-ever Copa Libertadores match, "La Lepra" secured a historic home victory over Bolívar. Their reward? A daunting second matchday trip to face the mighty Fluminense in Rio de Janeiro.

Speaking of Fluminense, the defending champions were involved in the matchday's major surprise. The Brazilian powerhouse was held to a frustrating draw by Venezuela's Deportivo La Guaira, a resilient performance from the hosts that proves every point in this tournament must be earned.

The opening round concluded in Ibagué, where Colombia's Deportes Tolima and Peru's Universitario played to a goalless draw. Both teams had their opportunities, but a breakthrough proved elusive at the Estadio Manuel Murillo Toro, wrapping up a matchday defined by grit, surprises, and the unexpected power of the away side.