Couple Desilien Hendy

18 days before the kickoff of the Copa América 2024, several teams stand out as favorites for the title. Others, more outsiders, could create a surprise. Here is an overview of the forces present and the players to watch closely.

Favorites:

Argentine: Reigning champion of the Copa América (2021), the Finalissima (2022) and the World Cup (2022), Argentina is the big favorite of the competition. With a solid defense, a complete midfielder and a Lionel Messi in great shape, the Argentines are aiming for a fourth consecutive title, which would be the 16th in their history, a record.

Brazil: Despite disappointing results in recent years, Brazil cannot be excluded from the title contenders. The team is full of young talents like Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, Martinelli, Raphinha and Paqueta. They will have to redeem themselves and regain their confidence to hope to win their 10th Copa América and get back on track before the next World Cup.

Uruguay: Considered a formidable underdog, Uruguay has a team in full construction with many talented young players such as Valverde, Nunez, Torreira and De Silvestri. They dream of winning their 16th continental championship title.

Les outsiders:

Colombia: Nicknamed “Los Cafeteros”, Colombia is a team capable of competing with any opponent. Tough and disciplined, she is aiming for another Copa America title.

Chili: Double winner of the competition (2015 and 2016), Chile has an experienced team with players like Sanchez, Vidal and Medel. They should never be neglected.

Paraguay: Finalist in 2015, Paraguay is a solid and well-organized team. With players like Gomez, Romero and Almirón, they could spring a surprise.

Peru: Finalist in 2019, Peru is a team in progress with talented players like Lapadula, Flores and Trauco. They have the potential to rise among the best.

Mexico: Winner of the Gold Cup in 2019 and 2021, Mexico is not to be underestimated. With players like Lozano, Jimenez and Guardado, they have the experience and talent to go far in the competition.

Players to watch:

Vinicius Jr. (Brazil):After his coronation in the Champions League with Real Madrid, Vinicius Jr. is expected around the corner. He will have to confirm his status as a rising star of world football.

Luis Diaz (Colombia): Pillar of Liverpool, Luis Diaz is one of the great hopes of Colombian football. He will have the heavy task of carrying his country on his shoulders.

Darwin Nunez (Uruguay): Revelation of the season in the Premier League with Liverpool, Darwin Nunez is a powerful and formidable striker. He will have an important role to play for Uruguayan ambitions.

Lionel Messi (Argentine): At 35, Lionel Messi is perhaps playing his last Copa América. He will want to leave his mark on this competition and leave with a new title.

The Copa América 2024 promises to be exciting and open. Many teams have the means to win. The favorites will have to confirm their status, while the outsiders will try to create a surprise. The players mentioned above are among the stars to follow closely.