Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana Round of 16 Draw: Everything You Need to Know

As the 2026 Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana enter their most critical stage, football fans across South America and beyond are preparing for the highly anticipated Round of 16 draw. The event, set to take place in Asunción, Paraguay, will determine the matchups for one of the most prestigious tournaments in world football. This article breaks down the Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana round of 16 draw, covering the schedule, format, key teams, and how to watch the live event.

When and Where Is the Round of 16 Draw?

The draw for the 2026 Copa Libertadores and Sudamericana Round of 16 is scheduled for January 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM local time (UTC-3) in Asunción, Paraguay. The event will be broadcast live on CONMEBOL’s official platforms, including their YouTube channel and website. For international viewers, the time translates to 8:00 PM UTC, making it accessible for fans across different time zones.

Asunción, the capital of Paraguay, has a rich football history, having hosted several key CONMEBOL events. The city’s football culture, fueled by passionate fans of teams like Olimpia and Cerro Porteño, adds to the excitement surrounding the draw.

How the Draw Works: Bombos and Format

The “bombos”, or pots, for the Round of 16 draw are determined by the teams’ group stage performances. In the Copa Libertadores, the 16 teams advancing from the group stage are split into two pots: the top eight from the group stage (based on points) and the eight best runners-up. In the Sudamericana, the 16 teams are divided into two pots of eight, with the top half of the group stage standings in one and the bottom half in the other.

Each draw is a single-elimination format, meaning teams must win their matches to progress. The Round of 16 will be played in a two-leg format, with the first leg on March 15–17, 2026, and the second leg on March 22–24, 2026. The winners will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winners of the other matches in their respective tournaments.

Key Teams and Representation from Ecuador

Ecuador will be well-represented in the Round of 16, with three clubs qualifying: Liga de Quito, Independiente del Valle, and Macará. These teams advanced from the group stage, showcasing the strength of Ecuadorian football on the continental stage.

Liga de Quito, a historic club with a strong fan base,