Home of football statistics and historyThe 47th edition of the Copa America gets underway on June 13 as ten teams from the CONMEBOL confederation battle it out for continental glory.
From the record-time champions Uruguay, through always-present Argentina, to reigning title-holders Brazil, ten of South America’s best footballing nations will stake their claim for the ultimate prize.
Who are the favourites?
Brazil, who coasted to the 2019 Copa America title, are looking to claim back-to-back crowns for the first time since 2007. The Selecao are among the leading candidates in the Copa America betting offers to win the most prestigious CONMEBOL competition, having wrapped up the trophy five times in the last nine Copa America editions.
The nation’s hopes of lifting a second consecutive continental trophy rely on Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar. The 29-year-old was forced out of the previous Copa America edition due to injury and will be keen to play a prominent role this time around.
Lionel Messi’s Argentina will be desperate to put their hands on the prize after heartbreaking back-to-back defeats to Chile in the 2015 and 2016 finals. The 33-year-old has won everything there is to win at the club level. However, a lack of international success continues to torment the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Following another premature World Cup exit back in 2018, La Albiceleste captain is determined to break his international hoodoo as Argentina look to claim their first Copa America title since 1993. The 2021 Copa America schedule has Argentina playing the opening game on June 13, and it will be an exciting game to watch.
One of the most exciting attacking partnerships Uruguay have ever had will have probably the last chance to drive their country to continental success. Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, both well in their twilight years, will lead the line for Oscar Tabarez’s La Celeste side this summer.
Protected from the back by the former Atletico Madrid defensive pair, Jose Maria Jimenez and Diego Godin, the Uruguayan star duo will try to emulate their side’s 2011 Copa America run.
Players to watch
Even though he has performed below his high standards for PSG this season, Neymar can never be overlooked when it comes to standout performances in major tournaments.
Brazil’s second-best goalscorer won the FIFA Confederations Cup with the Selecao back in 2013. However, a single international title cannot satisfy the ex-Barcelona star’s appetites as he has a point to prove in Argentina next month.
It is now or never for Lionel Messi. The Barcelona talisman is well aware of his football legacy as he enters the autumn of his playing career. The mercurial forward knows the international title would be a career-defining achievement that stands out among his peers.
If he is to climb to the top of the Green Continent, Messi will have to take responsibility and carry his team forward at the final tournament.
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