Velez takes Argentine first-division title

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Velez Sarsfield claimed Argentina's Inicial Tournament title on Sunday with a 2-0 victory over last-place club Union.

Like most Latin American countries, Argentina divides its season into two halves, and Velez's victory clinched the first-half championship.

Facundo Ferreyra scored both goals to give the Buenos Aires club its second title in four seasons, and the third in eight. It was the club's ninth title overall.

Velez moved onto 38 points with one round remaining, giving it an insurmountable lead. Its closest rival Lanus fell 1-0 on Sunday to River Plate, leaving it five points behind. Belgrano is also five off the pace.

With the game in doubt after the first half, Ferreyra ended the uncertainty with goals in the 48th minute and 84th.

"This is emotional, a dream come true," Ferreyra said.

Added coach Ricardo Gareca: "Winning the championship at home means everything to us."

In other results Sunday, Belgrano defeated Tigre 1-0, Arsenal downed Boca Juniors 1-0, and San Lorenzo defeated Independiente 2-1.

Despite the loss, Boca Juniors qualified for the Copa Libertadores. Boca was the runner-up last season.

In Saturday games: Racing 3, All Boys 1; Colon 3, Argentinos Juniors 1; Godoy Cruz 0, Quilmes 0.

Two matches are scheduled for Monday in the 18th and penultimate round: Newell's Old Boys vs. Atletico Rafaela, and Estudiantes vs. San Martin.