The Copa América is the oldest international football competition, with its inaugural edition held in 1916. Organized by the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), the tournament was originally created to commemorate the centenary of Argentina’s independence. Over the years, it has evolved into a prestigious event, showcasing the rich football heritage of South America.
Historical Highlights
First Tournament (1916)
- Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Teams: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay
- Champion: Uruguay
- Significance: The first Copa América marked the beginning of what would become the world’s oldest international continental football competition. Uruguay’s victory set the stage for their early dominance in the tournament.
Expansion and Inclusion
- 1990s Expansion: In the 1990s, CONMEBOL decided to invite teams from outside South America, including Mexico and the United States, to participate in the tournament. This move significantly increased the global appeal and competitiveness of Copa América.
- Invited Teams: Mexico has been a regular invitee since 1993, often performing well and adding to the tournament’s prestige. The United States and other CONCACAF teams have also participated, making Copa América a more diverse and exciting event.
Centenario (2016)
- Location: United States
- Significance: The 2016 edition, known as the Copa América Centenario, celebrated the 100th anniversary of the tournament. It was a special edition held outside South America for the first time.
- Champion: Chile
- Outcome: Chile triumphed, winning their second consecutive Copa América title. This victory solidified Chile’s status as one of the top teams in South American football during the 2010s.
Legendary Winners
Uruguay
- Titles: 15
- Historical Dominance: Uruguay is one of the most successful teams in Copa América history, with their first win in 1916 and their most recent title in 2011. Their early dominance in the competition helped establish the tournament’s reputation.
Argentina
- Titles: 15
- Consistency: Argentina has been consistently strong in the Copa América, winning their titles across different eras. Their most recent victory was in 2021, ending a 28-year title drought and bringing immense joy to their passionate fans.
Brazil
- Titles: 9
- Style of Play: Known for their samba football, Brazil has been a formidable force in Copa América. Their attacking style and talented players have brought them nine titles, with their latest win in 2019.
- Influence: Brazil’s success in the tournament has contributed to their reputation as one of the greatest footballing nations in the world.
2024 Copa America Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | United States |
| Key Dates | – Tournament Start: June 20, 2024 – Group Stage: June 20 – July 2 – Quarterfinals: July 4 – 6 – Semifinals: July 9 – 10 – Third Place Match: July 13 – Final: July 14, 2024 |
| Opening Match | Argentina vs. Canada at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta |
| Final Match | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida |
Participating Teams and Groups
| CONMEBOL Teams (10) | CONCACAF Teams (6) |
|---|---|
| Argentina (Defending Champions) | United States (Host) |
| Brazil | Mexico |
| Uruguay | Jamaica |
| Colombia | Panama |
| Chile | Canada (March 2024 Play-In winners) |
| Peru | Costa Rica (March 2024 Play-In winners) |
| Paraguay | |
| Ecuador | |
| Bolivia | |
| Venezuela |
Groups
| Group | Teams |
|---|---|
| Group A | Argentina, Canada, Peru, Chile |
| Group B | Mexico, Ecuador, Jamaica, Venezuela |
| Group C | United States, Colombia, Panama, Bolivia |
| Group D | Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, Costa Rica/Honduras |
Venues
| City | Stadium |
|---|---|
| Atlanta, GA | Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
| Miami Gardens, FL | Hard Rock Stadium |
| Arlington, TX | AT&T Stadium |
| Charlotte, NC | Bank of America Stadium |
| Kansas City, KS | Children’s Mercy Park |
| Kansas City, MO | GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium |
| Orlando, FL | Exploria Stadium |
| Santa Clara, CA | Levi’s Stadium |
| East Rutherford, NJ | MetLife Stadium |
| Houston, TX | NRG Stadium |
| Austin, TX | Q2 Stadium |
| Inglewood, CA | SoFi Stadium |
| Glendale, AZ | State Farm Stadium |
| Las Vegas, NV | Allegiant Stadium |