Venezuelan clubs Caracas FC and UCV FC eliminated from Copa Sudamericana after heavy defeats

Caracas FC and UCV FC have concluded their participation in the Copa Sudamericana 2026, both suffering significant defeats in the final stages. Caracas FC was eliminated by Independiente Santa Fe with an aggregate score of 5-0, while UCV FC also faced a substantial loss.

In the final nine days of their international campaign, the two Venezuelan clubs conceded a combined total of 13 goals. Caracas FC, in particular, struggled offensively, scoring only one goal across two legs against Santa Fe. Despite showing moments of promise, such as scoring early in the return leg, their efforts were ultimately insufficient.

Caracas FC's coach, Henry Meléndez, acknowledged the team's struggles with finishing. "As they capitalize on defensive errors, if you don't take advantage of the few opportunities you have, it will always weigh more," he stated in a post-match press conference. The team generated 24 shots against Santa Fe, but only five were on target, with none considered clear-cut chances according to Sofascore data.

Meléndez dismissed the idea that the change of venue to Barquisimeto affected the team's performance, calling it an "excuse." He emphasized that the club had performed well there in the past. UCV FC, while showing better offensive output by scoring three goals, suffered defensively, conceding eight goals, primarily due to issues with covering the flanks.