Copa Sudamericana Previews, Predictions & Betting Tips

The Copa Sudamericana is the second-most prestigious club competition in South American football. Formed in 2002, there is no group stage like the Champions League and Copa Libertadores, just two elimination rounds followed by the knockout stages and a two legged final.

The Copa Sudamericana champions gain entry into the Copa Libertadores the following season and have a chance to test themselves in the Recopa Sudamericana. 

Six teams from Argentina and six from Brazil qualify for the tournament with all other nations having four. Just like the Copa Libertadores, teams from Argentina and Brazil have dominated the tournament with an Argentine club winning eight times (50%) and a Brazilian club winning three times (19%).

One important factor in the Copa Sudamericana is high altitude, with many teams from Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru enjoying a significant advantage over their South American neighbours. The highest venue is Potosí in Bolivia where football is played at an astonishing 4067 metres above sea level.