2024 Copa America Preview: Favorites, Protagonists, and Key Matchups

Copa America 2024, info, favorites and protagonists

From June 20 to July 14, 2024, the United States will host the 48th edition of the Copa America, one of the most significant football events in the world which brings together teams of great global importance. For the second time in history, the tournament will be organized in North America, bringing with it several new features: the event will in fact be co-managed by CONMEBOL and CONCACAF, joining the forces of the South American and North-Central American confederations. Furthermore, the 2024 Copa America will be an important test for the country in view of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, as well as in Canada and Mexico.

The competition will see the participation of 16 teams: 10 from South America and 6 from the CONCACAF zone, who will qualify through the 2023/24 Nations League. The tournament will open with the group stage from June 20 to July 2, followed by the quarterfinals from July 4 to 6, the semifinals on July 9 and 10, and culminating with the final on July 14 in Miami.

Who are the favorites to win the 2024 Copa America?

Argentina. Reigning champions Argentina are the main favorites for the title. After winning the 2021 Copa America in Brazil and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the team led by Lionel Scaloni wants to continue dominating the international scene. Lionel Messi, despite his 36 years of age, remains the team’s guiding light, flanked by emerging stars such as Enzo Fernández and Julián Álvarez. Other key players are Emiliano Martínez, Mac Allister, Otamendi, Rodrigo de Paul and Lautaro Martinez.

Brazil. With nine continental titles in their palmares, Dorival Junior’s team is another big favorite for the final victory. After a disappointing exit in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup against Croatia, the team is looking for redemption and under the guidance of the new coach they are aiming for their tenth title. Despite the uncertainty over Neymar’s future in the national team, the Seleção can count on talents such as Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo and Richarlison, with the possibility of seeing the young Endrick in action too.

Who are the outsiders for this Copa America 2024?

Uruguay. With 15 America’s Cups won, despite the not too satisfactory last period, Uruguay still remains a threat and one of the most successful national teams in this competition. After the disappointment of the 2022 World Cup, the team is focusing on young talents such as Federico Valverde of Real Madrid and Darwin Núñez of Liverpool. The combination of experience and youth could lead Uruguay back to success.

United States. The United States, the hosts, want to surprise. The team, which has participated in four editions of the Copa America, focuses on players who play in top European clubs such as Musah (Valencia), McKennie (Juventus) and Pulisic (Milan). The experience gained in these championships could be decisive for the United States’ path in the tournament.

Mexico. Mexico, with ten participations in the Copa America, is a usual and competitive presence. Led by experienced players such as Hirving Lozano and Andrés Guardado, Mexico aims to carve out a leading role. Young talents like Hector Moreno and Edson Álvarez could also prove decisive, especially under the guidance of a coach as prepared as Jaime Lozano.

The draw, held in Miami, divided the teams into four groups, respecting specific criteria to ensure a balance between CONMEBOL and CONCACAF teams. Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and the United States are the top seeds. Here is the composition of the groups:

Group A: Argentina, Peru, Chile, Canada/Trinidad and Tobago

Group B: Mexico, Ecuador, Venezuela, Jamaica

Group C: United States, Uruguay, Panama, Bolivia

Group D: Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Honduras/Costa Rica

The 2024 Copa America promises to be an exciting tournament, with great teams ready to compete for the title. Argentina and Brazil start as favourites, but outsiders such as Uruguay, United States and Mexico could reserve surprises. It will be a tournament to follow carefully, as will the movements of football betting odds which always prove to be a useful indicator for understanding the direction of football tournaments and competitions at this level.

2024-05-22 16:00:45
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