Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana 2026 Group Stage Draw Completed

South American football now has its roadmap for the 2026 season. CONMEBOL conducted the group stage draw for both the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Sudamericana, setting up several high-level clashes and groups that promise intense competition from the start.

In the Copa Sudamericana, one of the main storylines is River Plate, who return to the competition and were placed in Group H alongside Red Bull Bragantino, Blooming, and Carabobo. The Argentine side will look to assert its dominance, although the Brazilian club poses a significant challenge.

Another eye-catching group is Group D, where Santos, featuring Neymar, will face San Lorenzo, Deportivo Cuenca, and Recoleta. Meanwhile, last year’s runner-up Atlético Mineiro headlines Group B against Cienciano, Academia Puerto Cabello, and Juventud.

In the Copa Libertadores, traditional powerhouses take center stage. Boca Juniors lead Group D, where they will face Cruzeiro, Universidad Católica, and Barcelona de Guayaquil, aiming to secure their first title since 2007.

Brazilian clubs once again enter as top contenders. Flamengo, placed in Group A with Estudiantes, Cusco, and Independiente Medellín, strengthened their squad with players like Lucas Paquetá, boosting their title ambitions.

Meanwhile, Palmeiras headline Group F alongside Cerro Porteño, Junior, and Sporting Cristal, in a group where their international experience could prove decisive. Other notable teams include Fluminense, Peñarol, Corinthians, and Liga de Quito, all aiming for deep runs in the tournament.

The group stage for both competitions will take place from April 7 to May 28. Group winners will advance directly to the Round of 16, while in the Copa Sudamericana, second-place teams will enter a playoff against clubs dropping from the Copa Libertadores.

The calendar will pause due to the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the knockout rounds resuming between July and August. The Copa Sudamericana final is scheduled for November 21 in Barranquilla, Colombia.

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