If you love South American football, the Copa Sudamericana is a tournament you can’t miss. It sits just below the Copa Libertadores and gives clubs a chance to shine on the continental stage. Below you’ll find the basics, the current schedule, and easy ways to watch every game.
The Copa Sudamericana starts with a first‑stage draw that pits 32 teams against each other in two‑legged ties. Winners move to the round of 16, where the tournament gets tougher. Each round is still home‑and‑away, so you get a chance to see your team play on their own turf and on the road. The final is a single match at a neutral venue, making the climax feel like a real showdown.
Because the tournament runs alongside domestic leagues, many clubs rotate squads. That means you’ll see a mix of seasoned stars and hungry youngsters. It’s a great place to spot future talent before they jump to Europe.
For 2025, the first‑stage legs kick off in early March. The round of 16 follows in May, quarter‑finals in July, and the final is slated for late November. Check your local listings, but most matches stream on CONMEBOL’s official platform and on regional sports channels like ESPN South America and Fox Sports.
Don’t have a subscription? Many games also appear on free‑to‑air channels in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. A quick search for “Copa Sudamericana live stream” on your phone usually brings up a legal option within your country.
Fans love the drama of underdogs upsetting giants. In recent years, clubs like Lanús and Independiente del Valle have gone all the way, showing that the tournament is unpredictable. Keep an eye on group‑stage statistics – goals scored, clean sheets and possession percentages can hint at which side might pull off a surprise.
Social media is another handy tool. Official CONMEBOL accounts post live scores, highlights and player interviews. Twitter and Instagram stories often give you a quick recap if you can’t watch the full match.
To get the most out of the Copa Sudamericana, set up notifications for your favorite teams. That way you’ll never miss a goal update or a last‑minute penalty drama. If you’re traveling, look for fan zones in major cities – they often broadcast the final on big screens.
Finally, remember that the tournament also offers a prize pool and a spot in next year’s Copa Libertadores for the winner. That extra incentive makes every knockout round intense and worth the watch.
Whether you’re a die‑hard supporter or just curious about South American football, the Copa Sudamericana delivers excitement, goals and stories you won’t get elsewhere. Tune in, follow the stats, and enjoy the ride.
Fluminense's dream of reaching the Copa Sudamericana semifinals ended in drama at the Maracanã. After a 1-0 first‑leg loss, the Brazilian side drew 1-1 on September 23, 2025, but Lanús advanced 2-1 on aggregate. The match featured a crowd disturbance, a late equaliser from Dylan Aquino and a header that hit the post in the dying minutes.
