The 2024 Copa America, South America's equivalent to the Euros, is set to kick off on June 20. Hosted by the United States for the second time in eight years, this prestigious tournament promises a thrilling showcase of footballing talent from across North, Central and South America. Bookies everywhere, including JeffBet, have been trying to predict who will come out on top this summer.
The United States will not be the only team from outside Central America competing in the tournament. Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, Panama and Jamaica will join them in making up the CONCACAF contingent in what has traditionally been a CONMEBOL-only event.
Let's take a look at the five biggest hitters in the tournament according to those in the know.
Argentina (7/4 favourites)
Argentina enters as both World Cup champions and holders of the Copa America title. With FIFA’s top-ranked national team led by eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, Argentina appears formidable on paper.
However, uncertainty looms over their campaign with manager Lionel Scaloni not committing beyond this tournament. This instability could either motivate or destabilize the defending champions.
Brazil (9/4)
Despite facing numerous challenges ahead of this tournament, Brazil remains one of the favourites due to its immense global status.
Several key players are either injured or out-of-form while their new manager Dorival Junior lacks international experience. However, Real Madrid trio Eder Militao, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo - fresh from winning another UEFA Champions League - will be crucial for Brazil's chances.
Real Madrid have contributed massively to this Brazil team of late, and that should be no different here, with the likes of Eder Militao, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo, all of whom have just won the UEFA Champions League, present at Copa America again. These three will be crucial to Dorival's chances.
Uruguay (5/1)
Uruguay has seen a resurgence under Marcelo Bielsa who has instilled his trademark brand of daring and energetic football. Despite failing to qualify for the under-23 Olympic tournament earlier this year – a significant disappointment given Uruguayans' affection for the Olympics – optimism prevails with Bielsa at the helm.
The former Leeds United manager is much-loved around the world and his teams always produce must-watch football. For this reason alone, Uruguay will be on many fans' watchlists at Copa America.
Colombia (12/1)
Colombia boasts an undefeated record in CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifying matches but still carries scars from missing out on the 2022 World Cup.
Their hopes mostly rest on Liverpool attacker Luis Diaz, who has succeeded former global stars Radamel Falcao and James Rodriguez as Colombia's standout player.
He isn't the only one to watch in this squad but he will be carrying the burden of being the most important figure in the squad without a doubt.
United States (12/1)
The USMNT enters the tournament seeking validation.
They showed progress with their performance at the 2022 World Cup and are aiming for a third consecutive CONCACAF Nations League title. However, they are still in transition, searching for a top striker and a stronger attacking identity in general.
Hosting the tournament should provide them with an extra boost, potentially helping them go all the way, which would be an immense shock.
Whoever ends up lifting the trophy, it should prove to be a fascinating showcase of some of the most exciting footballing talent from across North, Central and South America.
