Uruguay's Penarol took a step toward securing a place in the Copa Libertadores semifinals on Thursday with a 1-0 away win over Brazilian giants Flamengo.

Winger Javier Cabrera gave his side the lead in the 13th minute by latching onto Maxmiliano Silvera's one-touch pass with a 12-yard volley that rebounded into the net off the left post.

Flamengo dominated possession and completed more than three times as many passes as their opponents, but they paid the price for wasteful finishing. The Rio de Janeiro outfit had 20 shots on goal, six of which were saved by goalkeeper Washington Aguerre.

"We have created a spectacular atmosphere with a squad that works very hard and has the desire to win," Penarol manager Diego Aguirre told a post-match news conference.

"I can't ask for more from my players because they give everything. This result is a consequence of their hard work."

The decisive second leg of the quarterfinal fixture will be played at the Estadio Campeon del Siglo in Montevideo next Thursday.

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