Come summer of 2024, there’ll be a North and South American showdown at the Copa America 2024. Teams from both CONCACAF and CONMEBOL will lay their claim for the best team in the region.
With most coaches already naming their provisional squads, expect a lot of star power to grace the occasion. Among the Brazil contingent, expect a final squad including Alisson Becker, Bruno Guimaraes, Lucas Paqueta, young sensation Enderick, and Champions League finalist Vinicius Junior.
However, most expectations will be on Lionel Messi’s Argentina. Straight of a Finalissima, Copa America, and World Cup win, all eyes will be on the Albiceleste.
The tournament is set to kick off on June 20th in the United States and will last close to a month. Question is, which teams will make it to the Copa America 2024 final on July 14th, and which one will be crowned champions?
Uruguay
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Much like Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay is a nation with a deep footballing heritage. From hosting and winning the inaugural World Cup in 1930, they’re always a force to reckon with. Copa America 2024 in the USA will be the nation’s 46th, in pursuit of their 16th major trophy.
While Cavani and Suarez are not at their peak powers, the squad is arguably better overall. It now boasts a fine blend of experience, talent, and raw energy. Forming a strong defensive base are Internacional goalkeeper Sergio Rochet and Barcelona, as well as Atletico Madrid center-backs Jose Maria Gimenez and Ronald Araujo. They will also have support from Matias Vina and Sebastian Caceres.
In midfield, the key players will be Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde and Tottenham Hotspur’s Rodrigo Bentacur. These two are not only talented but possess a great work ethic. If they can have a great Copa America 2024 campaign, expect Uruguay to pose a stern challenge. They will also have support from Nicolas de la Cruz, with Manuel Ugarte and Matias Vecino offering support.
At the front, seasoned strikers Cavani and Luis Suarez may not make the final Copa America 2024 squad. However, Liverpool strike Darwin Nunez is expected to lead the charges with Brian Rodrigues offering back up. On the flanks, Faucindo Pellistri and Oliveira are likely to have starting berths.
Undoubtedly, this squad has significant potential. However, it’s the seasoned tactician at the helm that makes them unpredictable. Renowned for his football acumen, Marcelo Bielsa has what it takes to stun the favorites.
Also Read: 2024 Ballon d’Or Power Rankings | Vinicius Junior
Brazil
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Even though Neymar will be missing in action and the likes of Thiago Silva far from their best, the Selecao are always in contention. If anything, the lack of expectation may be what sets the five-time World Cup winners free to samba. After losing to Argentina in the final in their backyard, Brazil will be looking to restore their status as the best national side in the Western Hemisphere.
After Ederson suffered a fractured eye socket, there’s no doubt that Allison Becker will be between the sticks for Brazil. Ahead of him will likely be the pairing of PSG’s Marquinhos and Arsenal’s Gabriel Maghales. However, they face stern competition from Real Madrid’s defensive rock, Eder Militao. It’s at the fullback positions that Brazil is uncharacteristically weak, with relatively inexperienced players competing for the spots.
In midfield, the options are plenty, with Premier League duo Bruni Guimaraes and Lucas Paqueta locked in. To add some steel to this contingent, Douglas Luiz will likely get a starting berth, while Andreas Pereira, Joao Gomes, and Atalanta’s Ederson offer backup for the trio.
Where Brazil poses the most danger, it’s at the front. Blessed with gifted wingers with skills and an electric pace, the Selecao will head into Copa America 2024 with the confidence to take on anyone. Real Madrid duo Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo look locked in, with the likes of Endrick, Raphina, and Martinelli hoping to join them in attack.
If Brazil can focus on matters of football at the Copa America 2024, they have all the chance in the world to go all the way.
Argentina
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As current Copa America and World Cup holders, Argentina will be firm on favorites to retain their crown. The squad has gone from strength to strength under Lionel Scaloni. Aside from the surprise defeat to Saudi Arabia in their opening match in Qatar, this team just doesn’t seem to lose.
While Captain Lionel Messi carries all the plaudits, the team boasts a great mix of talent, depth, grit, and determination. At the back, Emiliano Martinez is rock solid with warriors like Nicolas Otamendi, Cristian Romero, and Lisandro Martinez keeping opposition attackers at bay.
In midfield, Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister, and Rodrigo de Paul give the team the stability it lacked previously. In doing so, they free up talisman Lionel Messi to wreak havoc among opposition defenses. Competing to join Messi in attack will be seasoned veteran Angel Di Maria, United teen sensation Alejandro Garnacho, and Manchester City and Inter Milan forwards Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
Also Read: Transfer Update: Chelsea Agree to a £29.1 Million Deal for Brazilian Teenage Sensation
Copa America 2024 Favorites
With such a balanced squad, Argentina will only have themselves in their way. They have the defensive solidity to thwart the threat of opposition attackers, while their quality in front can break down any defense.
Chris is a soccer aficionado whose life revolves around the game. He’s played competitively and is now a soccer writer and coach. Whether it’s in-depth match and player analyses or tactical reviews, his engaging writing style appeals to fans worldwide. Keep following his writings to stay informed about all things soccer.
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