BUENOS AIRES, May 24 (Xinhua) -- Goalkeeper Hernan Galindez produced the decisive save as Huracan reached the final of Argentina's Primera Division Apertura tournament on Saturday by beating Independiente away on penalties.
Despite its home ground advantage, Independiente rarely threatened Huracan's goal during the allotted 90 minutes while the visitors forced six saves from goalkeeper Rodrigo Rey.
With the scores locked at 0-0 at the end of normal time, the semifinal went straight to a shootout. Gabriel Avalos hit the bar with Independiente's first spot-kick, but the hosts drew level when Leonardo Gil's fifth attempt for Huracan was saved by Rey.
Independiente's Alvaro Angulo and Huracan pair Fabio Pereyra and Walter Mazzantti converted their respective spot-kicks, before Galindez denied Santiago Hidalgo as the visitors prevailed 6-5 in the shootout.
"I only have gratitude for what we have done," Huracan manager Frank Kudelka told a post-match news conference. "Everybody has played their part, from the players, staff and everyone that works at this football club."
"There are many more difficult times in this sport than there are good times and that's why I'm really enjoying what we're doing."
Huracan will meet the winner of the other semifinal between San Lorenzo and Platense in the final on June 1. ■
