As Euro 2024 captivated Europe, the Americas were gearing up for a thrilling event — the 2024 Copa America, hosted in the United States. Lionel Messi came back to help Argentina defend their 2021 title, and they successfully did so, confirming their champion status. While Mexico hoped to bounce back to top form. Check out all the thrilling Copa America brackets and dates, as well as standout players in in this Copa 2024 guide.
Copa America 2024 Overview
Copa America is similar to the World Cup but only includes teams from North and South America and the Caribbean. The teams are split into groups of 4 and play each other. The top 2 teams from each group advance to the knockout stages, where it’s win or go home until a champion is crowned in the final match.
Importance of the Tournament in the Football Calendar
Teams compete not just for the continental title but also to prepare for bigger tournaments like the FIFA World Cup. For players, it’s a chance to shine on the global stage and catch the eye of top European clubs.
Must-See Copa America Matches
The 2024 tournament started on Thursday, June 20, and ended with the 2024 Copa America final match on Sunday, July 14. These were the groups:
Group A:
Group B:
- Mexico
- Jamaica
- Ecuador
- Venezuela
Group C:
Group D:
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Paraguay
Key Opening Matches Copa America 2024
In the Copa América 2024 group stage, 10 teams and 6 guests competed, all wanting to dethrone Argentina, the 2021 champions. The action started Thursday at 8 p.m. ET, 5 p.m. PT, with Argentina playing against Canada (2-0).
Rivalries Matches to Watch at Copa America 2024
Historic rivalries fuel Copa America, sparking intense and unforgettable stage games. Just check out some of the Copa America 2024 historic rivalries:
Brazil vs. Argentina
This legendary rivalry is more than a copa game – it’s all about supremacy. An unforgettable clash was the 2004 final in Peru. Brazil went ahead with Adriano’s stunning goal, Argentina tied with Roberto Ayala’s penalty. Cesar Delgado put Argentina in the lead in the 87th minute, but Adriano’s injury-time equalizer took the match to penalties. Brazil won 4-2.
Uruguay vs. Brazil
A historic rivalry, highlighted by the 1983 final played in two legs. Uruguay won the first leg 2-0 in Montevideo. The second leg in Rio de Janeiro saw Brazil struggle against Uruguay’s strong defense, ending 1-1, giving Uruguay the title.
Argentina vs. Uruguay
As the oldest international football rivalry, starting in 1916, a significant clash was the 2011 quarterfinals in Santa Fe. The game tied 1-1 with goals by Diego Perez and Gonzalo Higuain. It went to penalties, and Uruguay won 5-4, eventually becoming winners of the 15th Copa America title.
Chile vs. Argentina
This rivalry has heated up recently with back-to-back dramatic finals in 2015 and 2016. Both Copa America matches ended 0-0 and went to penalties. In 2015, Chile won 4-1, securing their first Copa America title. In 2016, Chile won again, 4-2.
Top Players to Watch after Copa America 2024
Copa America is always packed with stars. Watch out for these top players Copa America 2024, who made a real impact:
- Lionel Messi from Argentina
- James Rodriguez from Colombia
- Darwin Núñez from Uruguay
- Maxime Crépeau, Canada’s goalkeeper
- Dibu Martinez, Argentina’s top goalie
Star Players at Copa America 2024
Meet the emerging talents that stood out in the world’s oldest national team tournament.
At just 17, Kendry Páez from Ecuador is one of South America’s brightest talents. He already gathered 8 international caps.
Gio Reyna, the 21-year-old son of former US player Claudio Reyna, has played 5 seasons with Borussia Dortmund and some time in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest.
North America’s Alphonso Davies, a 23-year-old defender, has shown his prowess with Bayern Munich for 6 seasons.
Mexico’s Santiago Gimenez, a 23-year-old striker, scored 23 goals for Feyenoord in the Dutch league last season.
Copa America 2024 Qualifiers: Impact Players Copa America 2024
Angel Di Maria and Lautaro Martinez were key in the Copa America qualifiers, despite being at different points in their careers. Lautaro Martinez scored the winning goal in extra time, despite Lionel Messi leaving the game with an injury.
James Rodriguez from Colombia stole the show by breaking Messi’s record with 6 assists during the tournament. He also created 20 scoring chances. Although Colombia didn’t win, he was named Copa America Player of the Tournament. Rodriguez was amazing!
Notable Absences Copa America 2024
Absences make a serious impact on teams’ chances and change the tournament’s dynamics. This year, Brazil struggled in the tournament under Dorival Junior, winning just one game against Paraguay before being eliminated in the quarter-finals. Key players were missing, and Vinicius Junior’s suspension hurt their chances.
The United States had a tough run, too, getting knocked out in the group stage, leading to Gregg Berhalter’s firing. It was their first time not advancing after winning their opening match in a major tournament.
Host Cities Copa America 2024
Cities hosting the 2024 Copa América were Arlington and Austin (Texas), Charlotte (North Carolina), East Rutherford (New Jersey), Houston (Texas), Inglewood and Santa Clara (California), Glendale (Arizona), Paradise (Nevada), Kansas City (Missouri and Kansas), and Orlando (Florida).
Copa America 2024 Travel
Discover cultural highlights of Copa America 2024 cities:
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is the ultimate party spot! It’s easy to get around with a 24/7 bus system. The Grand Canyon is a must-see!
Arlington, Texas
The city has historic sites, haunted spots, and plenty of sports bars. There’s something for every budget when it comes to accommodations.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Famous for NASCAR and its Motor Speedway, Charlotte is bustling with sports, businesses, and great food. Renting a car is best for exploring beyond Uptown.
Kansas City, Kansas
We recommend you to visit the National WWI Museum and the town of Independence for more adventures.
Orlando, Florida
Known as the Theme Park Capital of the World, Orlando offers activities for both kids and adults, fitting any budget.
Kansas City, Missouri
Dubbed the Barbecue Capital and City of Fountains, Kansas City is rich in art, jazz, and sports.
Miami Gardens, Florida
Stay close to this host site, but there are budget-friendly options citywide. Nearby attractions include Aventura Mall and Seminole Classic Casino.
Santa Clara, California
You can enjoy roller coasters and delicious food, or visit the Great America Theme Park and Triton Museum of Art.
Atlanta, Georgia
The city offers diverse accommodations, bars, restaurants, historic sites, and unique neighborhoods for unforgettable experiences.
East Rutherford, New Jersey
Don’t miss nearby Liberty State Park, the Hoboken Waterfront, and Liberty Science Center.
Copa America in Houston, Texas
Houston is a cosmopolitan hub of dining, arts, shopping, and nightlife. Explore the historic Heights, Museum District, or Space Center Houston.
Austin, Texas
Beyond football, enjoy the city known for its music scene. Explore the presidential library, Capitol building, and charming parks, plus visit the historic French Legation Museum.
Inglewood, California
Spend extra days visiting the Getty Center, Disneyland, or Universal Studios.
Stadium Highlights Copa America 2024
Here are the 14 key stadiums of Copa America 2024:
- Allegiant Stadium – Las Vegas, Nevada
- AT&T Stadium – Arlington, Texas
- Bank of America Stadium – Charlotte, North Carolina
- Children’s Mercy Park – Kansas City, Kansas
- Exploria Stadium – Orlando, Florida
- GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium – Kansas City, Missouri
- Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Gardens, Florida
- Levi’s Stadium – Santa Clara, California
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium – Atlanta, Georgia
- MetLife Stadium – East Rutherford, New Jersey
- NRG Stadium – Houston, Texas
- Q2 Stadium – Austin, Texas
- SoFi Stadium – Inglewood, California
- State Farm Stadium – Glendale, Arizona
These modern Copa 2024 stadiums offered unique features, such as easy access, plenty of seats, and fan facilities.
Extra Tips for Getting the Best Seats
For events like Copa America 2024, visitors booked early to grab the best seats and used stadium maps for the best views. For a premium experience, VIP or hospitality packages were available for those seeking extra comfort.
Fan Experience Copa America 2024
The Tamias Fan Zone was in Wynwood Marketplace in Miami for Copa América 2024, from June 20 to July 14, in the U.S., with fun activities for fans all tournament long.
Fan Zones Copa America 2024 and Fan Events
During 4 weeks, fans participated in sponsor activities, watched Copa America 2024 games on giant screens, bought official merchandise, enjoyed live shows with special guests, savored tasty food and drinks, and experienced many other activities.
The Copa America 2024 schedule was fully packed with fun activities and prizes.
Safety Tips
Staying safe at big events is paramount. Follow local news, stay in popular venues, and use common travel safety tips. Keep emergency contacts handy, know the local laws and other essential information, too.
Travel Tips
Here are some practical tips to make your trip to your favorite sports events awesome and safe:
- Find a safe and comfortable place to stay.
- Use public transport.
- Watch out for currency and language barriers.
- Save money and pack for emergencies.
- Book your return flight and stick to your schedule.
How to Get Tickets for Such Types of Events
Getting a Copa América games ticket was easier than you’d imagine — they were on sale at copaamerica.com.
And here’s a quick tip for future tournaments: avoid scams by only buying tickets from official sources or trusted sellers. Be cautious of deals that look too good to be true, and always check if your tickets are real.
Recap of Copa America 2024 Highlights
That was truly the most thrilling tournament in the United States so far! This was only the second time in 108 years it’s happening outside South America. The first was in 2016 for its 100th anniversary.
Argentina claimed the title by defeating Colombia 1-0 in the final at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Despite lengthy security delays, the event was a success.
Argentina’s rock-solid defense played a key role, allowing only one goal in six matches. Messi, despite some injuries, had key moments, including a fantastic semi-final goal against Canada. If this was Messi’s last Copa América, stars like Angel Di Maria and Lautaro Martinez shined brightly.
The tournament was unforgettable, filled with highs and lows and a great mix of new talents and experienced players.
