Cup 2026 Qualifiers: Venezuela Crushed 6-3 by Colombia, Miss Out on Play-Off Spot

There was heartbreak for Venezuela as they were thrashed 6-3 at home by a rampant Colombia side in a must-win match to keep their FIFA World Cup 2026 hopes alive. With a play-off place on the line, Venezuela simply couldn’t cope with Colombia’s firepower — most notably the sensational Luis Suárez, who netted four goals in a stunning performance.

The hosts started brightly, taking the lead through Telasco Segovia in the 3rd minute. However, their early momentum was short-lived. Yerry Mina equalized just seven minutes later before Suárez took over, scoring in the 42nd, 50th, 59th, and 67th minutes to effectively end Venezuela’s campaign. Despite goals from Josef Martínez and Salomón Rondón, the damage was done.

To make matters worse for Venezuela, Bolivia pulled off one of the shocks of the qualifying round, defeating Brazil 1-0 in La Paz — a result that saw them leapfrog Venezuela into the intercontinental play-off spot.

Venezuela 3-6 Colombia – Full-Time Score

Venezuela scorers: Telasco Segovia (3'), Josef Martínez (12'), Salomón Rondón (76')

Colombia scorers: Yerry Mina (10'), Luis Suárez (42', 50', 59', 67'), Jhon Córdoba (78')