Táchira and Carabobo Closer to Contesting the Final of Venezuela's Clausura Tournament
Deportivo Táchira and Carabobo have taken significant steps toward contesting the final of Venezuela's Clausura Tournament after their respective victories in the third round of matches, which concluded on Sunday. Táchira, following the appointment of a new coach after Eduardo Saragó's resignation, secured a 1-2 win against Rayo Zuliano.
The match began with Táchira taking an early lead in the 4th minute, thanks to a precise cross from Roberto Rosales that was expertly headed in by Nelson Hernández. Rayo Zuliano had a chance to equalize shortly after when they were awarded a penalty, but goalkeeper Jesús Camargo made a crucial save against Andrés Montero's lackluster attempt. Táchira capitalized on this missed opportunity, extending their lead in the 15th minute when Anthony Uribe converted following a quick turnover near the area. Rayo Zuliano managed to score a consolation goal with a stunning strike from Ángel Faría, who found the top corner, but it was not enough to change the outcome.
Meanwhile, Carabobo achieved a narrow 0-1 victory over La Guaira in a match that lacked tactical flair, particularly in the first half. The decisive moment came early in the second half when a tangled play in the area culminated in a powerful shot from José Balza, securing the win for the visitors.
As the third of six matches in this final stage wrapped up, Deportivo Táchira leads Group A with nine points, closely followed by Rayo Zuliano with six points. In Group B, Carabobo tops the standings with seven points, one ahead of La Guaira.
Additionally, Zamora positioned themselves third in Group A after securing their first victory against Caracas, who now sit at the bottom of the table. Estudiantes de Mérida also clinched their first three points, placing third in Group B after a win against Monagas, who remain at the bottom.
The top two teams from each group will face off in the final of the Clausura Tournament. The winner will then clash with the Apertura victor, unless Carabobo claims the title, in which case they would be crowned absolute champions of Venezuelan football.