His international career began on 3 July 1989 at the 1989 Copa América in a First Round game against Colombia playing 36 minutes after entering as a substitute in the second half.

For the 2010–11 Venezuelan Primera División season Sanvicente was appointed as the manager of Real Esppor Club (now called Deportivo La Guaira).

For the 2012–13 Venezuelan Primera División season Sanvicente was presented an offer to manage Deportivo Táchira, but due to the rivalry between Tachira and his ex-team Caracas FC, and being demanded immediate titles, he refused.

The following season Sanvicente led the team to glory again, this time defeating his ex-team as a player Mineros de Guayana becoming the most successful manager of Venezuela.

Sanvicente was among the favourite options of the fans and the press to become the national team's manager, but after weeks of negotiations with him and several other coaches, the Venezuelan Football Federation chose César Farías to replace Paéz.