Copa America Knockouts Set! Here’s Who Punched Their Ticket to the Quarterfinals.
Group Stage Recap: Who’s in the Copa America Knockouts?
The group stage of the 2023 Copa America has come to a close, and the knockout round matchups are now set. After three weeks of intense competition, 8 teams have booked their place in the quarterfinals, with some big names making early exits and others emerging as surprise contenders.
Let’s take a look at how each of the quarterfinalists fared in the group stage, and preview their upcoming matchups in the knockout round.
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Group A: Argentina and Canada Advance
In Group A, it was Argentina and Canada who advanced to the quarterfinals. La Albiceleste topped the group with a perfect 3-0 record, led by the heroics of Lionel Messi and company. They’ll now face off against Ecuador in the quarterfinals.
Canada finished second in the group with 4 points, punching their ticket to the knockout round in the Copa America for the first time. They’ll have a tough test ahead as they take on Venezuela later this week.
Meanwhile, Chile and Peru were both eliminated after finishing third and fourth in the group, respectively.
Group B: Venezuela and Ecuador Move On
Group B saw Venezuela and Ecuador secure the two quarterfinal spots in the Copa America knockouts. Venezuela were the standout team, winning all three of their matches to top the group with 9 points.
Ecuador finished second with 4 points to reach the Copa America Knockouts, narrowly edging out Mexico and Jamaica, who were both eliminated.
In the quarterfinals, Venezuela will face off against Canada, while Ecuador takes on the tournament favorites, Argentina.
Group C: Uruguay and Panama Advance
It was Uruguay who emerged victorious in Group C, finishing the group stage with a perfect 3-0 record. La Celeste will now take on Brazil in the quarterfinals of the Copa America knockouts.
Joining Uruguay in the knockout round is Panama, who finished second in the group with 6 points. They’ll have their work cut out for them as they take on Colombia.
The United States and Bolivia were both eliminated after finishing third and fourth, respectively, in Group C.
Group D: Colombia and Brazil Progress
Group D saw Colombia and Brazil secure the two quarterfinal spots. Los Cafeteros topped the group with 7 points, and will now face off against the Panamanians in the quarterfinals of the Copa America knockouts.
Brazil, one of the tournament favorites, finished second in the group with 5 points. They’ll take on a tough Uruguay squad in the quarterfinals.
Costa Rica and Paraguay were both eliminated after finishing third and fourth in the group.
Copa America Knockouts: Quarterfinal Matchups
With the quarterfinal matchups now set, the stage is set for an exciting knockout round. The tournament’s heavyweights will be looking to flex their muscles, while the underdogs will be hoping to pull off some major upsets. It’s sure to be a thrilling few days of Copa America action as the competition heats up and teams battle for a spot in the semifinals of the Copa America knockouts.
1. Argentina (Group A Winner) vs. Ecuador (Group B Runner-Up) – Thursday, July 4th, 9 PM ET (NRG Stadium, Houston, TX):
This matchup presents a clear favorite in Argentina. However, Ecuador shouldn’t be entirely disregarded. They have a talented young squad hungry to prove themselves. The key for Ecuador will be to frustrate Argentina’s attack and capitalize on any scoring opportunities that arise. Argentina, meanwhile, will be looking to establish dominance early and avoid any complacency. Messi’s fitness will be a factor to watch, as he is currently day-to-day with an injury. Argentina boasts a formidable attacking force even without him, though.
2. Venezuela (Group B Winner) vs. Canada (Group A Runner-Up) – Friday, July 5th, 9 PM ET (AT&T Stadium, Arlington, TX):
This Copa America knockouts quarterfinal holds the potential for an upset. Venezuela won their group, displaying a strong defensive organization. Canada, showcased defensive prowess, only scoring one goal in the group stages. This encounter could be a tight, low-scoring affair. Venezuela will aim to exploit any weaknesses in Canada’s defense, while Canada will be looking to unleash counter-attacks and get their offense going.
3. Uruguay (Group C Winner) vs. Brazil (Group D Runner-Up) – Saturday, July 6th, 6 PM ET (Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV):
This clash promises to be a classic South American rivalry. Uruguay’s experience and defensive prowess will be tested against Brazil’s attacking flair. They’ll to exploit any gaps in Brazil’s backline, while Vinicius Jr. will aim to unlock Uruguay’s stubborn defense. This match could go either way, and the team that capitalizes on their chances will emerge victorious.
4. Colombia (Group D Winner) vs. Panama (Group C Runner-Up) – Saturday, July 6th, 9 PM ET (State Farm Stadium, Glendale, AZ):
This quarterfinal appears to be the most one-sided on paper. Colombia, with their exciting young players and creative midfield, are heavy favorites. However, Panama shouldn’t be completely written off. They have surprised some with their defensive resilience, and they will be looking to frustrate Colombia and grab a potential upset. Colombia will need to remain focused and patient to break down Panama’s defense, but their attacking talent should ultimately see them through.
Looking Ahead
The quarterfinals of the 2024 Copa America knockouts promise to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and passion. With powerhouse teams like Brazil and Argentina in the mix, along with dark horses like Peru and Ecuador, the knockout stages are set to deliver high-octane football.
As the teams prepare for their crucial matches, fans can expect nail-biting finishes, spectacular goals, and dramatic moments that define the spirit of Copa America. The journey to the final is fraught with challenges, and only the best will advance. Football enthusiasts around the world are in for a treat as the action unfolds this week in the Copa America knockouts.