The highly anticipated Copa América tournament is set to kick off with Atlanta hosting the opening match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Reigning champion Lionel Messi and Argentina will begin their title defense against Canada in what could potentially be Messi’s final international tournament appearance.
This year marks the 48th edition of Copa América, taking place across 14 cities in the United States. While traditionally featuring South American CONMEBOL teams, this year’s tournament includes six teams from the CONCACAF region, including powerhouses like Mexico and the United States.
As fans eagerly await the action on the field, the question on everyone’s mind is whether Messi will lead Argentina to another major title or if the CONCACAF teams can challenge the dominance of South American soccer.
Soccer journalist Jon Arnold, known for his newsletter Getting CONCACAfed, shared his insights on the upcoming tournament with NPR’s Michel Martin. Here are some key points to watch for:
1. Messi’s Last Hurrah?
As Messi nears the twilight of his illustrious career, all eyes are on the Argentine star. Despite his age, Messi continues to showcase his exceptional skills on the field. With Argentina being the favorites to retain their title, fans are eager to see if Messi can add another major trophy to his impressive collection.
2. U.S. Men’s National Team Expectations
Coach Gregg Berhalter faces immense pressure as he aims to guide the U.S. Men’s National Team to success leading up to the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. The team’s performance in Copa América will be crucial in determining their progress and potential for the future.
Arnold emphasizes that a strong showing in the tournament is essential for the U.S. team to prove they are on the right path. However, challenges lie ahead, and the team will need to deliver consistent performances to meet expectations.
3. Tournament Prospects for the USMNT
While the U.S. team has made strides in recent years, Arnold remains cautious about their chances of winning the tournament or defeating powerhouse teams like Argentina. Despite improvements in their gameplay, the USMNT will face tough competition and will need to demonstrate their growth and capabilities on the field.
As the Copa América unfolds, soccer enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the thrilling matches and standout performances from top players. Whether Messi can lead Argentina to glory once again or if the U.S. team can defy expectations, one thing is certain – the tournament promises to deliver excitement and memorable moments for fans worldwide.
