Let’s not be fooled. As much as Brazilians and Argentines love beating each other – not always literally – on the pitch, the Copa America is the kind of tournament that both nations relegate to a second plan. Or used to in the last few years. Now, the 43rd edition of the continental competition has assumed an importance that could influence both sides preparations for the 2014 World Cup. Especially for the one that does not lift the trophy.
From July 1st to July 24th, 12 sides, including CONCACAF wild cards Mexico and Costa Rica (a necessary addition in a continent lacking top sides), will play in eight Argentine cities in order to make it to the Buenos Aires final. Few doubt that the hosts will lock horns with current holders Brazil in what the Argentine supporters are already relishing as a chance to avenge defeats in the last two finals.
Winning this competition, however, would also be very significant for Messi and co given the doubts about the best player in the world’s galvanising potential. As unfair as it might sound, Messi has been singled out by media and public as a failure in the national team, so the days he will spend playing in front of his countrymen could prove a special opportunity to win hearts and minds for the upcoming qualifiers.
From July 1st to July 24th, 12 sides, including CONCACAF wild cards Mexico and Costa Rica (a necessary addition in a continent lacking top sides), will play in eight Argentine cities in order to make it to the Buenos Aires final. Few doubt that the hosts will lock horns with current holders Brazil in what the Argentine supporters are already relishing as a chance to avenge defeats in the last two finals.
Winning this competition, however, would also be very significant for Messi and co given the doubts about the best player in the world’s galvanising potential. As unfair as it might sound, Messi has been singled out by media and public as a failure in the national team, so the days he will spend playing in front of his countrymen could prove a special opportunity to win hearts and minds for the upcoming qualifiers.
Brazil, on the other hand, does not need to through the qualifiers, since the have receiced a host spot in 2014. Nonetheless, the absence of real competitions is being quoted as a problem in the build up for the main event. Apart from the Argentine jamboree, the 2013 Confederations Cup is the only other event in the current calendar. Defeat in the Copa America could stir up the tempers and finally put an end to the armistice that so far has marked Mano Menezes’ tenure at the national team. Neymar and co had better keep it in mind.
One should not forget that Uruguay will be looking to capitalize on last year’s amazing performance in South Africa. Their continental pedigree demands respect: alongside Argetina, they are the Copa biggest winners, with 14 titles, even though the last one was at home, in 1995 – Brazil have eight. After a great qualifying campaign for South Africa and a very decent tournament, where even mighty Spain struggled against them, Paraguay will also be looking for some giant killing.
One should not forget that Uruguay will be looking to capitalize on last year’s amazing performance in South Africa. Their continental pedigree demands respect: alongside Argetina, they are the Copa biggest winners, with 14 titles, even though the last one was at home, in 1995 – Brazil have eight. After a great qualifying campaign for South Africa and a very decent tournament, where even mighty Spain struggled against them, Paraguay will also be looking for some giant killing.
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