Rio de Janeiro: Corinthians defeated Mexico's Cruz Azul 1-0 at home to top Group F home in the 2012 Libertadores Cup.
The game's only goal came in the 35th minute from a free kick by Alex which Danilo headed past keeper Corona and into the Cruz Azul goal. Cruz Azul players complained that Danilo used his arm to direct the ball, but the referee did not overturn the goal.

With the win, Corinthians toppled Cruz Azul and claimed first place in the group with eight points. Cruz Azul falls to second with seven points, Xinhua reported.

Corinthians will next travel to face Paraguay's Nacional April 11.

The top two teams of each of the eight groups advance into the second phase of the competition. Corinthians are looking to win their first Libertadores Cup title.(IANS)