Venezuela lacks zeal for the game (5)

I believe the answer is:

venue

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'venezuela' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both locations as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for venue that I've seen before include "Site for event" , "Appointed place or location" , "Something is happening here" , "place to meet" , "The place where something happens" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times (Crosaire) and The Irish Times.

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