Carabobo FC wins Venezuelan Apertura Tournament title

Carabobo FC has been crowned champions of the Venezuelan Primera División's Apertura Tournament, defeating Academia Puerto Cabello 2-1 in a hard-fought final. The victory secures their place in the playoff for the overall Venezuelan football championship.

The match saw Carabobo, managed by Daniel Farías, take early initiative. Their pressure paid off in the 26th minute when Erick Ramírez converted a penalty after being fouled by Joshuan Berríos. Ramírez, who had been called up for Venezuela's national team friendlies, chose to stay for the final, a decision that proved fruitful.

Before the penalty, Carabobo appeared somewhat disjointed, with large gaps between their lines, which Puerto Cabello, coached by Eduardo Saragó, failed to exploit. However, Carabobo tightened their formation and defensive structure as the game progressed, while Puerto Cabello struggled to create clear scoring opportunities.

In the second half, Carabobo extended their lead in the 58th minute. Loureins Martínez, the team's top scorer with eight goals, found the net after a setup from Yohandry Orozco. Puerto Cabello's offense remained largely ineffective until the dying moments of the game. Edwuin Pernía managed to score a consolation goal in the third minute of stoppage time, but it was not enough to alter the outcome.

Carabobo FC will now await the winner of the Clausura Tournament to determine the absolute champion of Venezuelan football for 2026. The Granates' triumph marks a significant achievement in their season.