Everton's well-struck shot four minutes into the additional half an hour was enough for the Copa Libertadores winners to earn a narrow semi-final victory over the Mexican side at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain City.

Pachuca then had Victor Guzman sent off for a second yellow card 10 minutes from time to compound the misery for the Mexican team.

The match had finished 0-0 after 90 minutes, with neither side able to create many clear-cut opportunities.

Gremio will take on either European champions Real Madrid or hosts Al Jazira in Saturday's (December 16) final.

The early exchanges were evenly-matched as both sides went about making their mark in the contest.

Edilson and Oscar Murillo tried their luck from range but were unable to trouble Pachuca goalkeeper Oscar Perez.

Keisuke Honda wasted the best chances for Pachuca as he twice failed to convert when through on goal.

Guzman then forced Gremio goalkeeper Marcelo Grohe into his first meaningful save of the match before opposite number Perez tipped Luan's effort onto the post.

Luan had a glorious opportunity to settle the encounter in favour of the Brazilian side in the late stages but the deflected corner came at his feet to quickly and the chance went begging.

Neither team were able to break the deadlock and the match went to extra-time.

But it did not take long for the crucial blow to be struck as Everton cut in from out wide and unleashed a vicious drive which flew into the net.

In the other game to take place today, Asian Champions League holders Urawa Red Diamonds secured fifth spot as they beat Morocco's Wydad Casablanca 3-2.