The 2024 Copa América: Group D Preview
The 2024 Copa América may have saved the best for last, with Group D featuring two teams that have a realistic shot at the title and another two that could make a lot of noise over the coming weeks. Brazil is a perennial threat to claim the title, while Colombia also possesses the talent to embark on a deep run and is enjoying a searing run of form. Paraguay and Costa Rica could also surprise, with both nations having demonstrated their tournament mettle in recent years.
Unlike many competitions, the six matches will be held in six different venues spread across Texas, California, and Nevada.
Schedule
- Monday, June 24th
Colombia vs. Paraguay – 6:00 p.m. Eastern, 3:00 p.m. Pacific
Brazil vs. Costa Rica – 9:00 p.m. Eastern, 6:00 p.m. Pacific - Friday, June 28th
Colombia vs. Costa Rica – 6:00 p.m. Eastern, 3:00 p.m. Pacific
Paraguay vs. Brazil – 9:00 p.m. Eastern, 6:00 p.m. Pacific - Tuesday, July 2nd
Brazil vs. Colombia – 9:00 p.m. Eastern, 6:00 p.m. Pacific
Costa Rica vs. Paraguay – 9:00 p.m. Eastern, 6:00 p.m. Pacific
Brazil
The Seleção (The Selection) is hunting for a tenth Copa América with a squad filled with European standouts and domestic talents. The team is facing a challenging moment, currently sitting in sixth place in the World Cup qualifying table. Manager Dorival Júnior believes the team can turn things around quickly and the young core of attackers could be key to their success.
FIFA Ranking: 5
Recent Record: Brazil bounced back from a three-match losing streak with strong performances in friendlies and pre-tournament exhibitions.
Odds of Winning Group: In the running
One to Watch: Endrick, the 17-year-old Palmeiras attacker, is a versatile player with no apparent limitations and could play a crucial role in Brazil’s campaign.
Colombia
Colombia, also known as Los Cafeteros (The Coffee Growers), has been showing promise under relatively inexperienced manager Néstor Lorenzo. The team is undefeated in World Cup qualifying and looks fearless and ready to take on all opponents.
FIFA Ranking: 12
Recent Record: Colombia has had strong showings in friendlies and pre-tournament exhibitions.
Odds of Winning Group: Favorites
One to Watch: Luis Díaz, the Liverpool attacker, will be a key player for Colombia with his goal-scoring abilities and creativity on the field.
Paraguay
La Albirroja (The White and Red) may not be the favorites, but they have the potential to surprise. Coach Daniel Garnero aims for a more attacking style of play, hoping to capitalize on set pieces and individual brilliance.
FIFA Ranking: 56
Recent Record: Paraguay has had mixed results in friendlies and pre-tournament exhibitions.
Odds of Winning Group: Needs help
One to Watch: Goalkeeper Carlos Coronel will play a crucial role in Paraguay’s campaign with his shot-stopping abilities and skills on the field.
Costa Rica
The lone CONCACAF representative in the group, Costa Rica, faces a tough challenge. Coach Gustavo Alfaro aims to push his team into the knockout stage with an aggressive tactical set-up.
FIFA Ranking: 52
Recent Record: Costa Rica has had mixed results in recent friendlies and World Cup qualifying matches.
Odds of Winning Group: Needs help
One to Watch: Forward Manfred Ugalde will be a key player for Costa Rica with his goal-scoring abilities and intelligence on the field.
