Santos' Copa Sudamericana game shifted to Valencia after Venezuelan earthquakes

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) announced that the first‑leg playoff between Brazil's Santos FC and Venezuela's Universidad Central will no longer be played in Caracas. The match has been moved to the Estadio Misael Delgado in Valencia, about 175 km from the capital, and will take place on 21 July 2026 at 21:30 Brasília time. The relocation follows a series of strong earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela in recent weeks, causing extensive damage and at least 920 deaths. CONMEBOL said the change was made to ensure safety and logistical feasibility, noting that flights to Caracas were being rerouted to Valencia. Santos issued a statement expressing solidarity, saying “Mais uma vez o Santos se solidariza com a população venezuelana neste momento de superação diante da tragédia…”. The second leg of the tie is scheduled for 28 July at Santos' Vila Belmiro stadium.