How Venezuela became surprise Copa América quarterfinalists

Venezuela has emerged as a surprising quarterfinalist in the Copa América, capturing attention with their slogan “Mano, tengo fe” (“Bro, I have faith”). This phrase, which has become part of the national team’s identity, embodies a renewed sense of belief and cohesiveness. Under coach Fernando Batista, who took over in March 2023, the team has shown remarkable progress, overcoming past challenges related to internal conflicts, logistics, and under-preparation. Historically, Venezuela has struggled in South American football due to baseball’s dominance, political turmoil, and weaker sports administration. They have only reached the Copa América semifinals once, in 2011. Recent commendable performances in the group phase, including wins over Ecuador, Mexico, and Jamaica, have placed them alongside tournament favorites Argentina and Uruguay. They now face Canada in the quarterfinals. Key players performing well in their respective clubs, such as Salomón Rondón, Yeferson Soteldo, and Yangel Herrera, have contributed to the team’s success. Despite finishing last in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, Venezuela is currently fourth in the 2026 qualifiers, indicating significant strides under Batista’s leadership. Improved tactics and effective execution have been instrumental in their recent success. Venezuela’s national football team has shown resilience and strategic adaptability under coach Batista and assistant coach Leandro Cufre. Despite not playing any pre-tournament friendlies for Copa América, they focused on intensive training in Tampa, Florida. This approach paid off as Venezuela won their initial matches against Ecuador, Mexico, and Jamaica, securing top position in Group B and setting up a quarterfinal against Canada. Coach Batista views the tournament as part of a larger project to prepare the team for future successes, emphasizing a proactive playing style to minimize opponents’ ball possession. Veteran center-forward Salomón Rondón, who scored key goals in the group stage, remains critical to the team’s performance. Despite past disappointments, Rondón is optimistic about Venezuela’s potential to advance to the World Cup in 2026. Venezuela’s historical presence in Copa América semifinals and recent draws against strong teams like Brazil indicate their tactical organization and individual prowess, particularly from players like Yeferson Soteldo and Darwin Machis. Reaching the semifinals would validate fans’ faith and signify significant progress, possibly leading to World Cup qualification

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