RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- Atletico Mineiro took a major step toward reaching the Copa Libertadores final on Tuesday with a 3-0 home win over River Plate.

Deyverson Silva struck either side of halftime in the semifinal first leg before Paulinho Sampaio added a third goal 16 minutes from time at Arena MRV.

Despite the lopsided result, Atletico manager Gabriel Milito said his team had plenty of scope for improvement ahead of the return clash in Buenos Aires next Tuesday.

"I believe we can get better," the former Barcelona and Argentina international defender said. "I understand that after today's result, many fans feel confident in our team. But I have to analyze the team's performance honestly, and not just the result."

He added: "We are happy to get the first win at home, but the defining match will be in Buenos Aires. I know how difficult it is to play against River at their ground and in front of their fans. We have to stay focused because the tie isn't over yet."

Botafogo will host Penarol in the first leg of the other semifinal in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday. Enditem

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