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Venezuela lacks zeal for the game (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

venue

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'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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