The Copa America 2024 is set to be an electrifying tournament, hosted in the vibrant stadiums of the United States. This edition promises to be particularly special as it marks the final Copa America appearance of the legendary Lionel Messi. The Argentine maestro will be aiming to further cement his status as the greatest of all time (GOAT) by leading Argentina to another triumph.
Meanwhile, Brazil enters the competition with a thrilling squad spearheaded by the dynamic Vinicius Jr., poised to showcase their flair and skill on the big stage. Alongside these giants, Uruguay and Colombia emerge as dark horses, each boasting a blend of experience and youthful exuberance capable of causing significant upsets. With an array of talent across the continent, Copa America 2024 promises to deliver unforgettable moments and high-stakes drama as teams compete for South America’s most prestigious football title.
2024 Copa América Teams and Group Stage Analysis
Group A: Argentina, Canada, Peru, Chile
This is an exciting group. Argentina are, of course, the favorites here, but Peru, Chile, and Canada all have enough star power to take 2nd place and qualify for the Quarter-Finals.
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| Argentina vs Canada | 20:00 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA | Thursday, 20th June |
| Peru vs Chile | 19:00 | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX | Friday 21st June |
| Peru vs Canada | 17:00 | Children’s Mercy Park, Kansas City, KS | Tuesday 25th June |
| Chile vs Argentina | 20:00 | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ | Wednesday 26th June |
| Argentina vs Peru | 20:00 | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, FL | Sunday 30th June |
| Canada vs Chile | 20:00 | Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, FL | Sunday 30th June |
Group B: Ecuador, Venezuela, Mexico, Jamaica
This is where some serious dark horse action could occur. None of these teams are really expected to win the tournament, although Mexico will be the most likely. Out of Ecuador, Venezuela, and Jamaica, some serious upsets could be caused.
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| Ecuador vs Venezuela | 23:00 | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA | Saturday 22nd June |
| Mexico vs Jamaica | 20:00 | NRG Stadium, Houston, TX | Saturday 22nd June |
| Ecuador vs Jamaica | 20:00 | Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV | Tuesday 25th June |
| Venezuela vs Mexico | 15:00 | SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA | Wednesday 26th June |
| Mexico vs Ecuador | 19:00 | State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ | Monday 1st July |
| Jamaica vs Venezuela | 19:00 | Q2 Stadium, Austin, TX | Monday 1st July |
Group C: USA, Bolivia, Uruguay, Panama
The USA want to flex their footballing muscle before the World Cup in 2026 and this could be the perfect opportunity. Uruguay are the favorites in this group but the US will fancy themselves over Bolivia and Panama, especially when they’re hosting the tournament!
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| USA vs Bolivia | 17:00 | NRG Stadium, Houston, TX | Sunday 23rd June |
| Uruguay vs Panama | 20:00 | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, FL | Monday 24th June |
| Panama vs USA | 20:00 | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA | Thursday 27th June |
| Uruguay vs Bolivia | 20:00 | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ | Friday 28th June |
| Bolivia vs Panama | 20:00 | GEHA Field at Arrowhead, Kansas City, MO | Tuesday 2nd July |
| USA vs Uruguay | 20:00 | Inter&Co Stadium, Orlando, FL | Tuesday 2nd July |
Group D: Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Costa Rica
This is the best group of the lot. Both Brazil and Colombia are contenders to win it, and both Paraguay and Costa Rica have proved in the past that they have the ability to stir it up and be a dark horse. All eyes will be watching Group D!
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| Colombia vs Paraguay | 17:00 | NRG Stadium, Houston, TX | Monday 24th June |
| Brazil vs Costa Rica | 19:00 | SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA | Tuesday 25th June |
| Colombia vs Costa Rica | 19:00 | State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ | Friday 28th June |
| Paraguay vs Brazil | 19:00 | Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV | Saturday 29th June |
| Brazil vs Colombia | 19:00 | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA | Wednesday 3rd July |
| Costa Rica vs Paraguay | 19:00 | Q2 Stadium, Austin, TX | Wednesday 3rd July |
Copa America 2024 Full Schedule
(all times are in local time)
Copa America 2024 Knockout Schedule:
Quarter-Finals:
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| Quarter Final 1 | 21:00 | NRG Stadium, Houston, TX | Thursday, 4th July |
| Quarter Final 2 | 21:00 | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX | Friday, 5th July |
| Quarter Final 3 | 18:00 | State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ | Saturday, 6th July |
| Quarter Final 4 | 18:00 | Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV | Sunday, 7th July |
Copa America Semi-Finals 2024:
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| Semi-final 1 | 20:00 | MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ | Tuesday, 9th July |
| Semi-final 2 | 20:00 | Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC | Wednesday, 10th July |
Third-place Play-off:
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| Third-place Play-off | 20:00 | Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC | Saturday, 13th July |
Final:
| Fixture | Time | Stadium | Date |
| Final | 20:00 | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL | Sunday, 14th July |
Copa America 2024 Stadiums:
The Copa America 2024 will be hosted across several iconic stadiums in the United States, providing a grand stage for one of the most exciting football tournaments. The opening match will be held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, while the final will take place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Here is the complete list of stadiums that will host the matches:
| Venue | Location | Capacity | |
| Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Atlanta, Georgia | 71,000 | |
| AT&T Stadium | Arlington, Texas | 80,000 | |
| Q2 Stadium | Austin, Texas | 20,738 | |
| Bank of America Stadium | Charlotte, North Carolina | 74,867 | |
| MetLife Stadium | East Rutherford, New Jersey | 82,566 | |
| NRG Stadium | Houston, Texas | 72,220 | |
| SoFi Stadium | Inglewood, California | 70,240 | |
| Levi’s Stadium | Santa Clara, California | 68,500 | |
| State Farm Stadium | Glendale, Arizona | 63,400 | |
| Allegiant Stadium | Las Vegas, Nevada | 61,000 | |
| Arrowhead Stadium | Kansas City, Missouri | 76,416 | |
| Children’s Mercy Park | Kansas City, Kansas | 18,467 | |
| Hard Rock Stadium | Miami Gardens, Florida | 64,767 | |
| Inter&Co Stadium | Orlando, Florida | 25,500 |
These venues will provide a diverse and exciting backdrop for the tournament, ensuring fans across the United States can experience the thrill of Copa America 2024.
Key Matches to Watch
Argentina vs Canada
All eyes will be focused on Argentina and Canada as they kick off the proceedings of the Copa America 2024. Will Lionel Messi and Argentina be the team to beat? It will be tough to tell. Even after their opening game loss to Saudi Arabia in 2022, they went on to win the World Cup! Canada will want to prove that they’re not just here to take part and will be gunning for glory as well, led by Alphonso Davies.
Chile vs Argentina
A thriller! Two bitter rivals battling it out on the pitch once again. The two sides have such an exciting history and fans will be hoping that this will be the next chapter of a very fiery story.
USA vs Uruguay
The USA will have the chance to flex their muscle as they face an elite opposition. The US has been developing a top side for many years now and this tournament may finally be the chance that their side takes it to the later rounds of a tournament.
Brazil vs Colombia
The ultimate matchup of the group stages, Brazil and Colombia face off in the final group stage match. This means that everything could be on the line. Expect fierce tackles, yellow cards (and red cards), and unbridled passion.
Team Previews and Star Players
Top Contenders and Their Icons
Argentina: Leo Messi
Argentina enters Copa America 2024 with high expectations, particularly as it marks Lionel Messi’s final appearance in the tournament and also because they are ranked number one in the FIFA World Rankings. The team is riding the momentum of their recent World Cup victory, and Messi, their talisman, will be crucial in their quest for another title. Known for his unparalleled playmaking ability and goal-scoring prowess, Messi aims to cement his legacy by leading Argentina to back-to-back Copa America triumphs. With a solid supporting cast including the likes of Lautaro Martínez and Rodrigo De Paul, Argentina is one of the top contenders for the title.
Happy 46th birthday to the Argentinian mastermind, Lionel Scaloni 🔥
— 365Scores (@365Scores) May 16, 2024
1x World Cup winner 🏆
1x Copa América winner 🏆
1x World's Best Club Coach 🏆
1x CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions winner 🏆 pic.twitter.com/5yFE3XOnEx
Brazil: Vinicius Jr
Brazil is always a powerhouse in Copa America, and 2024 is no exception. With an exciting blend of young talent and experienced players, they are among the favorites to win. They’re ranked fifth in the world rankings. Vinicius Jr., their star forward, is expected to play a pivotal role. Known for his electrifying pace and dribbling skills, Vinicius has matured into a key player for both Real Madrid and the national team. Brazil’s chances are bolstered by a robust defense and a midfield capable of controlling the game, making them a formidable opponent for any team.
They’ll be without star man Neymar, however. The Al-Hilal superstar has dealt with an injury all year so he’ll be sidelined.
Neymar is set to miss ANOTHER Copa America due to injury 😕#Neymar #Ney #NeyJr #NeymarJr #Brazil #CopaAmerica #365Scores pic.twitter.com/72Y5xuQ3Ul
— 365Scores (@365Scores) February 20, 2024
Colombia: James Rodríguez
Colombia’s prospects in Copa America 2024 largely depend on the form and fitness of James Rodríguez. The experienced playmaker has had a resurgence in his club career, bringing creativity and vision to the Colombian midfield. With a mix of seasoned professionals and emerging talents like Luis Díaz, Colombia is viewed as a dark horse capable of challenging the traditional powerhouses. Their success will hinge on maintaining consistency and exploiting the attacking prowess they possess.
Uruguay: Ronald Araujo
Uruguay is known for its resilient and combative style of play, and Copa America 2024 sees them as potential challengers for the title. Ronald Araujo, their defensive stalwart, will be crucial in ensuring solidity at the back. The Barcelona defender brings strength, aerial ability, and tactical awareness, which are vital for Uruguay’s defensive strategies. Combined with the attacking threats of Darwin Núñez and the experience of Luis Suárez, Uruguay has the capability to upset the favorites and make a deep run in the tournament.
Emerging Talents to Watch:
Endrick – Brazil
He’s a special talent, touted as one of the future greats
- Club: Palmeiras, moving to Real Madrid in July 2024
- Age: 17
- Position: Centre-Forward
- Skillset: Endrick is known for his excellent goal-scoring ability, agility, and quick footwork. A left-footed forward, he has drawn comparisons to legendary Brazilian strikers like Ronaldo and Romário. In the 2023 season, he scored 11 goals in 31 league appearances.
- Stats: Endrick also has 2 goals in 4 appearances for the Brazil national team. He scored the winner against England at Wembley, highlighting how he’s unfazed by even the biggest of stages.
Santiago Giménez – Mexico
- Club: Feyenoord
- Age: 23
- Position: Forward
- Skillset: Giménez is recognized for his strength, aerial ability, and finishing skills. He has been a crucial player for Feyenoord, contributing both goals and assists, making him one of Mexico’s brightest prospects.
- Stats: In the 2023/24 season, he has scored 23 goals and provided 6 assists in the Eredivisie, demonstrating his pivotal role in Feyenoord’s attack and making him a key summer target for Premier League clubs
Dario Osorio – Chile
- Club: FC Midtjylland
- Age: 20
- Position: Right-Winger
- Skillset: Osorio is known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to create chances from the wings. His agility and technical skills make him a constant threat to defenses.
- Stats: Osorio made 23 appearances (15 starts) in the Danish top flight as he scored eight goals and chipped in with two assists.
Ricardo Pepi – USA
- Club: PSV Eindhoven
- Age: 21
- Position: Forward
- Skillset: Pepi is noted for his clinical finishing, positioning, and work rate. His ability to convert chances and his poaching instincts have made him a key player for both club and country.
- Stats: Pepi has already made 23 appearances for the USMNT, scoring ten goals
Historical Context and Previous Copa America Winners
Here is a list of the last ten winners of the Copa America tournament:
| Year | Winners | |
| 2021 | Argentina | Argentina won their 15th Copa America title, defeating Brazil 1-0 in the final held at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. |
| 2019 | Brazil | Brazil secured their 9th Copa America title, defeating Peru 3-1 in the final at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. |
| 2016 | Chile | Chile won the Copa America Centenario, defeating Argentina 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw in regular time in the final held at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey. |
| 2015 | Chile | Chile won their first-ever Copa America title by defeating Argentina 4-1 on penalties after a 0-0 draw in regular time in the final held at Estadio Nacional, Santiago. |
| 2011 | Uruguay | Uruguay claimed their 15th Copa America title, defeating Paraguay 3-0 in the final held at Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires. |
| 2007 | Brazil | Brazil won their 8th Copa America title, defeating Argentina 3-0 in the final held at Estadio José Pachencho Romero, Maracaibo. |
| 2004 | Brazil | Brazil won the Copa America title by defeating Argentina 4-2 on penalties after a 2-2 draw in regular time in the final held at Estadio Nacional, Lima. |
| 2001 | Colombia | Colombia won their first Copa America title, defeating Mexico 1-0 in the final held at Estadio El Campín, Bogotá. |
| 1999 | Brazil | Brazil secured the title by defeating Uruguay 3-0 in the final held at Estadio Defensores del Chaco, Asunción. |
| 1997 | Brazil | Brazil won the title by defeating Bolivia 3-1 in the final held at Estadio Hernando Siles, La Paz. |
Betting Odds and Predictions
Argentina are the favorites to win Copa America, priced at 7/4 at bet365. Brazil trail slightly behind, priced at 9/4 on bet365. Uruguay are 5/1 whilst Mexico and Colombia are 11/1 and 12/1 respectively.
Our hosts, the USA, are 16/1 which could be an interesting longshot on winning the Copa America.
The first official FIFA world ranking of 2024 has been released! 🌎#Argentina #France #England #Belgium #Brazil #Netherlands #Portugal #Spain #Italy #Croatia #Uruguay #Morocco #USA #Colombia #FIFA #365Scores pic.twitter.com/CYXkFks0lS
— 365Scores (@365Scores) February 16, 2024
Fan Activities and Cultural Impact
Hosting Copa America 2024 in the United States for only the second time ever is a momentous occasion, offering American fans a unique exposure to the vibrant football culture of South America ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The tournament promises an array of fan activities, including fan zones, cultural festivals, and interactive exhibits celebrating the diverse traditions of participating nations. Cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and New York will become hubs of football enthusiasm, blending local culture with South American flair. This event not only enhances the cultural fabric of the host cities but also ignites passion and interest in soccer among the American populace, setting the stage for an even larger celebration in 2026.
FAQs
What is the Copa America?
Copa America is the oldest international continental football competition, organized by the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL). It features national teams from South America, and occasionally guest teams from other continents are invited to participate.
Where is the Copa America being held?
The Copa America 2024 is being held in the United States, a precursor to the 2026 World Cup held in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
How often does the Copa America take place?
Copa America is typically held every four years. However, the schedule has varied over time, with some tournaments occurring at different intervals to align with special events or organizational changes. For example, the 2020 edition was held in 2021 due to Covid-19.
Which team has won the most Copa America trophies?
As of the latest tournaments, Uruguay and Argentina are tied with the most Copa America titles, each having won the tournament 15 times. Brazil follows with 9 titles. The reason why they have won so many is that until 1967, the tournament was held far more frequently, often in consecutive years.
Will Messi be in the Copa America?
Get ready for a thrilling Copa America 2024 with Lionel Messi in action! Now an MLS star, Messi doesn’t have far to travel, adding an extra spark to his participation. Don’t miss out—this tournament is poised to be Messi’s grand finale on the international stage, making every match a must-see event as we may not see him at the 2026 World Cup!
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on Twitter (X)
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