CONMEBOL Copa Sudamericana 2026 Fixtures, Results & Standings

About Copa Sudamericana

The Copa Sudamericana, officially known as the CONMEBOL Sudamericana, is the second most prestigious club tournament in South American football, organized annually by CONMEBOL (South American Football Confederation). Launched in 2002, it is the equivalent of Europe’s UEFA Europa League, offering intense continental competition and a pathway to greater international honors.

The tournament features top clubs from across South America, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay, Chile, and more. It has grown into a vital platform for showcasing regional talent, rivalries, and emerging stars.

Competition Format

The Copa Sudamericana includes clubs that qualify based on their performance in domestic leagues or national cups.

Structure:

• First Stage: Regional matchups (e.g., Brazil vs Brazil, Chile vs Chile)
• Group Stage: 8 groups of 4 teams
• Knockout Rounds: Includes third-placed teams from Copa Libertadores groups
• Final: A single match at a neutral venue

Teams accumulate points in the group stage (Win = 3, Draw = 1, Loss = 0), with the top teams advancing to the knockout rounds.

Significance & Prestige

While secondary to the Copa Libertadores, the Sudamericana is still highly prestigious, especially for clubs outside the traditional giants. For many teams, it is a realistic path to international glory, media attention, and increased fan engagement.

The winner receives:

• A direct spot in the next year’s Copa Libertadores
• The right to play in the Recopa Sudamericana (against the Libertadores champion)
• Substantial financial rewards and CONMEBOL points

Historic Winners & Highlights

Some of South America’s iconic clubs have lifted the trophy:

• Independiente (ARG) – 2 titles
• Atlético Paranaense (BRA)
• Defensa y Justicia (ARG)
• São Paulo (BRA)
• Liga de Quito (ECU)

The tournament has often been a launchpad for rising players and a showcase of tactical innovation.

Venues & Final Format

The final is held as a single match at a neutral venue selected by CONMEBOL. This change (since 2019) aims to replicate the drama and spectacle of Europe's UEFA finals.

• Recent venues include: Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes (Argentina), Estadio Centenario (Uruguay), Estadio Nueva Olla (Paraguay)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the Copa Sudamericana?
A: It is the second-tier continental club competition in South America, organized by CONMEBOL and similar to the UEFA Europa League.

Q: When is the Copa Sudamericana played?
A: It usually runs from March to November, culminating in a one-leg final.

Q: How many teams participate?
A: A total of 56 teams participate, including clubs that drop from the Copa Libertadores.

Q: What does the winner receive?
A: The champion earns a spot in the next year’s Copa Libertadores, a Recopa Sudamericana appearance, and significant prize money.

Q: Which club has won the most Copa Sudamericana titles?
A: Independiente of Argentina holds the record with 2 titles.

Q: Where is the Copa Sudamericana final 2025?
A: The final venue for 2025 has not been officially announced by CONMEBOL.