BUENOS AIRES, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Independiente missed the chance to head their group as they stumbled to a 1-0 loss at Deportivo Riestra in Argentina's Primera Division on Friday.
Pedro Ramirez put Deportivo ahead with a 17th-minute strike and the hosts defended resolutely thereafter to clinch their third win of the campaign.
Independiente had 74 percent of the possession and completed almost three times as many passes as their rivals but could manage only one shot on target.
The result leaves Independiente fourth in Group A with 18 points, behind leaders River Plate on goal difference.
River have the chance to extend their lead when they host Gimnasia on Sunday. Deportivo Riestra, meanwhile, are seven points further back.
In Friday's only other Argentine Primera Division fixture, Newell's Old Boys were held to a goalless home draw by Platense. ■
