The 2024 Euros is already underway and Copa America 2024 is right behind it. With six CONCACAF nations joining the 10 South American teams, the field is deeper than usual. Naturally, there are bound to be some heavyweight battles in the Knockout Stage, but the Group Stage should provide plenty of fireworks as well. With only two of the four teams in each of the four groups advancing, every game will be meaningful. However, we picked out several games during the Group Stage of Copa America 2024 that will mean just a little more.
Argentina vs Canada, June 20
The opening match of the tournament is always going to be one to watch. That’s particularly true because it features the reigning World Cup champions Argentina, who are also the reigning Copa America champions. They also have a player in Lionel Messi who the whole world wants to see in his first major tournament since the World Cup. However, nobody should be overlooking the Canadians. They qualified for the last World Cup and have over a handful of players who make their living in one of Europe’s top-five leagues. Under new head coach Jesse Marsh, Canada is fresh off a scoreless draw with France, which means the Canadians won’t be intimidated by Messi and Argentina.
Brazil vs Costa Rica, June 24
In addition to Argentina, all eyes will be on Brazil’s first match of the tournament as well. Brazil’s star-studded roster will face a feisty Costa Rica team on the big stage at SoFi Stadium. Los Ticos have qualified for five of the last six World Cups, so they’re accustomed to facing elite squads and won’t be intimidated. There is also a little bit of pressure on Brazil to start fast following a 1-1 draw against the U.S. in a recent friendly.
Chile vs Argentina, June 25
These two nations share a long border and a big rivalry, so it’s always special when they meet in Copa America. Keep in mind this is also a rematch of the 2016 Copa America Centenario final and will be played in the same venue – MetLife Stadium. In other words, there is some historical significance to this match. Of course, Chile has failed to qualify for the last two World Cups since winning both the Copa America in 2015 and the Copa America Centenario in 2016. Therefore, the talent level between these teams might have a significant gap. But the Chileans surely aren’t going to back down in a game against Argentina.
Venezuela vs Mexico, June 26
It’s impossible to forget El Tri as one of the heavyweights in this tournament. While not officially the host nation, Mexico will be playing all three Group Stage matches close to home. While there will be plenty of excitement for Mexico’s opener against Jamaica, it’s the second match at SoFi Stadium against Venezuela that will be the one to watch. El Tri enters Copa America losing four of its last six matches, all against teams that are also in this tournament. This game against Venezuela will be especially tricky for the Mexicans because it’s against a Venezuelan side that’s gotten off to a fast start in World Cup Qualifying. La Tricolor is currently fourth in CONMEBOL Qualifying. They are a potential dark horse in this tournament and can prove it by beating Mexico.
United States vs Uruguay, July 1
Without question, this match will be the highlight of Group C. The United States and Uruguay are both considered head and shoulders better than Bolivia and Panama, so both should have secured a spot in the Knockout Stage by the time they play each other in the Group Stage finale. Nevertheless, first place in the group could be up for grabs in this match, which means there will be an incentive for both squads to bring their best effort. Plus, given the expectations surrounding the talented American side and the pressure on coach Gregg Berhalter, the U.S. needs a positive result against a quality South American side like Uruguay to prove they’re a serious threat to win this tournament.
Brazil vs Colombia, July 2
You can keep up with the latest Copa America 2024 odds for who will win the championship from some of the leading sportsbooks as the tournament unfolds. Heading into the tournament, both Brazil and Colombia are among the top four favorites. That could make this the best match of the Group Stage. At this point in the tournament, it’s likely that both Brazil and Colombia will have booked a ticket for the Knockout Stage. However, first place in the group will still be on the line, so this will be a meaningful match for both sides, giving each a chance to make a statement before the Knockout Stage begins. Keep in mind Colombia beat Brazil 2-1 during World Cup Qualifying last November, potentially giving the Brazilians a little extra incentive in this match.
