Copa América, South America’s continental competition, has begun in the United States for the second time after being hosted in 2016. The tournament features a range of storylines, including World Cup champions Lionel Messi and Argentina defending their title, the USMNT gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, and Brazil seeking to regain their form.
With the action set to unfold over the next few weeks, there are several exciting aspects to look forward to, such as the rivalries, star players, and key matchups that will make this edition memorable.
As Messi celebrates his 37th birthday on Monday, there is speculation about whether this could be his final international tournament. In a recent interview, Messi mentioned that Copa América is an opportunity to secure a third consecutive major title with Argentina and create lasting memories with the national team. However, he remains uncertain about his future participation in major tournaments, including the next World Cup.
While Argentina enters the tournament as favorites, there are several dark horse teams that could potentially cause upsets. Uruguay, led by Marcelo Bielsa, has shown resilience and determination in recent matches, making them a formidable opponent. Colombia, under the guidance of Nestor Lorenzo, has undergone a transformation and is now a well-organized and disciplined team that should not be underestimated.
In Group D, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, and Costa Rica will face off in intriguing matchups. Brazil, led by new coach Dorival Júnior, will be looking to reclaim their dominance in South America. Colombia, on the other hand, has been on an impressive unbeaten streak under Nestor Lorenzo’s leadership and could pose a significant challenge to their opponents.
Uruguay, known for their attacking prowess under Marcelo Bielsa, have been a force to reckon with in qualifiers. With star players like Luis Suárez and Darwin Núñez in top form, Uruguay is expected to deliver exciting performances in the tournament.
Teams such as Ecuador, Paraguay, and Chile are also worth watching due to their transitional phases, while Bolívia and Peru will be aiming to improve their fortunes from previous qualifiers. Venezuela, currently fourth in the qualifying standings and on track to make their first World Cup appearance, should not be overlooked either.
As the United States embraces Copa América once again, the tournament promises to showcase top-tier talent, captivating storylines, and the passionate energy of the Latin American diaspora. With a mix of established stars and rising talents, this edition of Copa América is set to captivate fans and deliver thrilling football action.