The Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has left a significant mark on the MLS since joining earlier this year. The recent years have been incredibly successful for the eight-time Ballon d’Or holder, who achieved successive international triumphs in both the Copa America and the FIFA World Cup while representing Argentina.
The 2024 CONMEBOL Copa America, marking its 48th edition, is set to kick off next June, hosted in the United States. As the recently revealed groups unfold, the reigning champions, La Albiceleste led by Lionel Messi, are all set to defend their title on U.S. soil.
Lionel Messi to open 2024 Copa America for Argentina
Argentina, the defending champions, clinched the prestigious and oldest title, Copa America, in 2021 at the iconic Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro. They secured victory by prevailing over the hosts and arch-rivals Brazil 1-0 in the final, courtesy of Angel Di Maria’s decisive goal. Notably, this Copa America will be Di Maria’s last appearance in national team colors.
Messi finished as the top scorer in the previous edition of the tournament, leading his team to their first-ever international triumph after ending a three-decade wait. Moreover, the Barca icon is the joint top appearance maker in Copa America and is set to become the sole record-holder with another appearance next summer.Ā
The World Cup Champions, Argentina are set to contest the tournament opener at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Serving as the inaugural match, their opponents will be decided from the winner of the Concacaf playoff clash between Trinidad & Tobago and Canada.
The final fixture is scheduled to be held on July 14, 2024, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Argentina to play group stage matches in three venues
The defending champions have been placed in Group A alongside their familiar rivals Chile, Peru, and either Canada or Trinidad & Tobago. Chile is expected to be the main challenge for Messi and the team, having thwarted Argentina’s attempts to claim the trophy in two consecutive finals on penalties in 2015 and 2016, respectively.
Argentina’s Copa America 2024: Schedule, Dates, and Venues.
Match 1: Argentina vs. Canada/ Trinidad and Tobago
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
Date: June 20, 2024
Match 2: Chile vs. Argentina
Venue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
Date: June 25, 2024
Match 3: Argentina vs. Peru
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
Date: June 29, 2024
The 16-nation tournament will feature teams from both the South American Confederation CONMEBOL, and CONCACAF representing North and Central America, competing for the illustrious title.
