Honors are even after the first leg of the Copa Sudamericana final between Argentinian side Tigre and Brazilian giants Sao Paulo ended in an uninspiring goalless draw.

The match at La Bombonera, where Tigre was the host, had little in the way of goalmouth action, with an early red card for each side providing the greatest excitement.

In the 13th minute, Sao Paulo striker Luis Fabiano clashed with Tigre defender Alejandro Donatti and kicked out at him.

Paraguayan referee Antonio Arias sent both men off, though Donatti appeared to have done little wrong.

Sao Paulo had the better of what chances there were in the first half, with efforts from Luis Fabiano in the fourth minute and Denilson 22 minutes later, both of which were well saved by Tigre keeper Damian Albil.

Tigre was sharper after the break but struggled to create any real chances.

The second leg at the Morumbi next Wednesday will see the teams play extra time and then penalties if the match ends in another draw, with the away-goals rule not used at this stage.

Tigre defender Lucas Orban told Fox Sports: "I think we played the match we expected. The red cards changed the game and complicated it for us. Sao Paulo play really well, they are fast. At 0-0 we are hopeful. We always have faith."

Midfielder Ruben Botta added: "We were well ordered and had opportunities, especially in the second half. Sao Paulo play well with the ball and now we must go to their home. If we keep our shape and play good football, we can win."