Eighteen months after their triumphant World Cup victory in Qatar, Lionel Messi and Argentina are set to embark on a new quest for glory, aiming to secure another Copa America title in the United States, starting June 20th. This tournament holds special significance as it could mark Messi’s swansong, the Argentine legend set to turn 37 just four days after the tournament commences.
While Argentina enters the tournament with a formidable 36-match unbeaten streak, their path to the title won’t be without hurdles. Their group, featuring Chile, Canada, and Peru, promises competitive encounters.
Chile, despite a recent decline in form and a vastly altered roster, still possesses veterans like Alexis Sanchez and Claudio Bravo, who will be key to guiding a younger squad. The two nations have a history of intense clashes, with Argentina narrowly edging out Chile in the Copa America finals of 2015 and 2016.
The United States, under new head coach Jesse Marsch, enters the tournament with a renewed sense of optimism following an inspiring performance in the World Cup, where they pushed both Belgium and Morocco. Their recent goalless draw against World Cup runner-up France further reinforces their potential to cause upsets.
Peru, currently languishing at the bottom of the South American World Cup qualifiers, is in search of a turnaround. Their recent five-match unbeaten streak provides a glimmer of hope for a change in fortune.
Argentina’s pursuit of a second consecutive Copa America title will be a captivating storyline, especially with Messi’s illustrious career potentially drawing to a close. The tournament promises a blend of exciting football, nostalgic moments, and intriguing rivalries.
