Teams

Santos Wins Big Against Universidad Central in First Match

6 August 2026·4 min read·Fernando Vargas
Santos Wins Big Against Universidad Central in First Match

Santos FC fans celebrated after their team defeated Universidad Central, 4-1, in the first leg of the round-of-16 playoffs of the Copa Sudamericana 2026 held in Valencia, Venezuela. Not to

Santos, Takes Big Advantage Against Universidad Central in First Match

By Sports.

Context

Santos, a well-known Copa Sudamericana club, continue to show their strength in the competition. Despite the challenges, including the lack of several key players, their performance in this match gave hope for their fans and strengthened their position in the tournament.

Why it matters

Santos' big win against Universidad Central shows their ability in Copa Sudamericana football, especially despite the challenges they face. The 4-1 result gives them a big advantage as the second leg of the playoffs approaches, which could boost their morale and confidence in their season outlook.

Key Points

  • Santos, Win Big Against Universidad Central in First Match.
  • Santos put on a show in Valencia, Venezuela, where they beat Universidad Central 4-1 in the first round of the Copa Sudamericana playoffs.
  • 📹 Santos cruises in Venezuela, one and a half feet in Sula last 16 - Yahoo Sports.
Santos FC fans celebrated after their team defeated Universidad Central, 4-1, in the first leg of the round-of-16 playoffs of the Copa Sudamericana 2026 held in Valencia, Venezuela. The match was not held in Caracas, but in Valencia because it is safer from the severe earthquake that recently hit the neighboring country. Despite their financial crisis and still no news regarding Neymar's return, Peixe showed their courage and skill to finish the match with a big lead. Mosquera was the only real threat Universidad Central presented, especially in the first half, but Santos weathered the storm. Gabriel Bontempo scored first for Santos — giving the team confidence before the end of the first half. Although it almost tasted bad luck when Universidad Central hit the goalpost in stoppage time of the first half, Peixe immediately recovered in the second period.
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Gabriel Menino added the second goal for Santos after a nice assist from Oliva, eventually slotted into the corner of the net. This was followed by two hits from Thaciano to gradually destroy the opponent's defense, it seems that it is time to break the so-called 'curse' and bring Peixe closer to the round-of-16. In the last minutes, a strange scene — Universidad Central's goalkeeper made a mistake, the back defense caught the ball, and Rony stepped in to make the score 4-0 in favor of Santos. Despite the disappointment of the home crowd, Maicol Ruiz still got the consolation goal for Universidad Central with their first shot of the second half. Because of this, Santos holds a big advantage on aggregate and they can still lose by up to two goals when they return to Vila Belmiro next Tuesday and still enter the round-of-16 against Macará of Ecuador. Universidad Central needs to win three goals to hope to reach the penalty shoot-out. Fans will be waiting to see if Neymar can return for Santos' upcoming match against Chapecoense on Saturday, part of the second leg of the Brasileirão season.
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What's next

In the next match, Universidad Central's defense is expected to be tougher as they try to turn the situation around. For Santos, the aim is to continue their good run and record a win in their home leg against Macará, which could give them a place in the round-of-16 of the Copa Sudamericana.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the score in the match between Santos and Universidad Central?

The score in the match between Santos and Universidad Central is 4-1 in favor of Santos.

What is the effect of this match on the Copa Sudamericana standings?

Santos' big win puts them in a good position in the round-of-16 playoffs of the Copa Sudamericana.

Who scored the goals for Santos?

Those who scored goals for Santos were Gabriel Bontempo, Gabriel Menino, and Thaciano.

When is Santos' next match in the Copa Sudamericana?

No specific date has yet been given for Santos' next match in the Copa Sudamericana.

Where was the match between Santos and Universidad Central held?

The match between Santos and Universidad Central was held in Valencia, Venezuela.

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Mga Madalas na Itanong

What was the score in the match between Santos and Universidad Central?
The score in the match between Santos and Universidad Central was 4-1 in favor of Santos.
What is the effect of this match on the Copa Sudamericana standings?
Santos' big win puts them in a good position in the round-of-16 playoffs of the Copa Sudamericana.
Who scored the goals for Santos?
Those who scored goals for Santos were Gabriel Bontempo, Gabriel Menino, and Thaciano.
When is Santos' next Copa Sudamericana match?
No specific date has yet been given for Santos' next match in the Copa Sudamericana.
Where was the match between Santos and Universidad Central held?
The match between Santos and Universidad Central was held in Valencia, Venezuela.
What is the next fixture to watch?
Fans should follow the involved clubs' upcoming schedules as coaches react to this result in their preparation.
TeamsCopa SudamericanaSantosUniversidad CentralNeymarGabriel BontempoGabriel MeninoThacianoRonyMaicol Ruiz

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