Romario fails to lift Vasco

The presence of legend Romario on the bench and the pitch did not save Vasco da Gama from elimination from the Copa Sudamericana quarter-finals.

The Brazilian team beat Mexican giants America 1-0 in Rio de Janeiro but exited the tournament 2-1 on aggregate after a 2-0 defeat in the first leg.

Romario agreed to take over the reins on a temporary basis after the dismissal of Celso Roth and, when Leandro Amaral opened the score after only 11 minutes, the appointment was looking like an inspired move by the club.

But a string of fine saves from America goalkeeper Ochoa kept the Brazilians at bay, prompting Romario to bring himself on as a second-half substitute.

Vasco pressed with renewed vigour but could not find a crucial second goal, leaving America to take their place in the semi-finals.

Romario said: "The team showed spirit, it was OK. I'm satisfied with my coaching debut."

On his future, he added: "My commitment was only for this game, but in football you never know what will happen."

Another Brazilian side bowed out in Colombia, as Millonarios beat Sao Paulo 2-0 to complete a 3-0 aggregate win.

With Sao Paulo's minds perhaps on the league title, which they are on the verge of winning, Millonarios took full advantage, controlling the game and bagging two goals courtesy of Ricardo Ciciliano.

The quarter-finals continue when Mexican giants Guadalajara host Argentina's Arsenal after a goalless first leg and Defensor Sporting hosting River Plate in Uruguay in the opening match of their tie.