Copa América Quarter-Finals Preview: A Copa Entrega de Novo

The Copa América has not disappointed so far. From upsets to controversial decisions to high-flying performers, the tournament has been packed with quality. In this article, we examine the upcoming quarter-finals between Argentina-Ecuador, Venezuela-Canada, Colombia-Panama and Uruguay-Brazil.

Argentina vs Ecuador: The Holders Thriving on the Main Stage

Argentina topped their group comfortably claiming maximum points, scoring 5 goals and conceding 0. Messi and the gang appear confident and resolute, perhaps winning their games with control instead of complete destruction of their opponents. Lautaro Martínez leads the tournament as top goalscorer with 4 despite coming off the bench in 2/3 games, he's still scored in all 3 matches so far.

Next up, they face a youthful and potent Ecuador side who finished surprisingly second. in their group. Comparing their squad with the likes of Mexico and Venezuela who prior to the tournament lacked chemistry in my opinion, I tipped Ecuador to top the group with no problems. Yet, La Tricolor suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Venezuela in the opener. They recovered well with victory over Jamaica and a tight draw with Mexico, allowing them to progress to the next round. As I've said before, I've been very impressed with this Ecuadorian side, a potential "golden generation" to some. If they are firing, they certainly can cause Argentina problems.

The two face each other with Argentina certainly the favourites. I don't think this will be a walkover for Argentina, Ecuador have significantly improved in recent years. However, Argentina's world-class quality will be enough to progress to the semi-finals where they will face one of Venezuela or Canada.

Jack's score prediction: Argentina 2-1 Ecuador

Venezuela vs Canada: Les Rouges Entering Unknown Waters for the First Time

The Canadians have made national football history by making it to the quarter-finals for the first time in their history, beating Peru and drawing with Chile to progress. The Canadians have been producing solid performances, only losing 2-0 to Argentina in a game where they still possessed a threat. The big test for the Canadians will be improving in front of goal. The common issue during the group stage was not taking their chances when they arrived, demonstrated by their underperformance of xG by 2.05.

Tournament veterans Venezuela will prove to be a tough test. When I did my first Copa América preview, I wasn't convinced Venezuela would make it out of the group due to their lack of tournament preparation having not played since March 2024 as well as a mixed quality squad. They've certainly proved me wrong. Maximum points, 6 goals scored and 1 goal conceded highlights that the Venezuelans should not be underestimated. Salomon Rondon has led the line superbly, notching 2 goals this tournament.

This match will be very intriguing to watch. Both sides will be high on confidence for varying reasons. Canada will put up a strong fight, but their wastefulness in front of goal concerns me, something that will be punished towards the latter stage of any international competition. Venezuela's tournament experience should deal with the Canadians, setting up a likely tie with Argentina in the next round. Nevertheless, Canada should be very proud of their progress as a footballing nation, now holding bragging rights over the USA (ouch!).

Jack's score prediction: Venezuela 2-0 Canada

Colombia vs Panama: ¡Mami, prende la radio, enciende la tele, no me molesta que el sábado juega La Sele!

Colombia have been one of the best teams in the tournament so far, maintaining an undefeated status despite playing Brazil in their group. Football fever has taken over Colombia, demonstrated by their fans outstanding support at every game in the tournament. I had to pay ode to Ryan Castro's "El Ritmo Que Nos Une", which is an absolute temazo. The song features a surprise rap verse from Luis Díaz!

Focusing on the football, following their failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, it is evident that the Colombians are hellbent on winning La Copa. La Tricolor's dynamic attacking style has merited them many admirers with the likes of Muñoz, Díaz and Duran getting involved in the goals. Victories over Paraguay and Costa Rica were to be expected but it was the character of their 1-1 draw with Brazil which was noticeable. Despite going a goal down, Colombia remained determined and grabbed an equaliser via Muñoz. The Brazil match was timed very well, preparing the Colombian's for the latter stages of the competition where they will face top sides of the same ilk as Brazil.

Panama have been the biggest surprise of the final 8 teams in La Copa. Pitted in a group with Uruguay, USA and Bolivia, I saw the Panamanians only securing a routine win over Bolivia. However, a shock result against USA saw them progress into the quarter-finals, the furthest they've progressed in their history. Panama's play style looks to upset the rhythm of their opponents and they will try their best to slow the Colombian attack.

Despite Panama's shock appeal, I can't look past a Colombian side brimming with confidence. Genuinely, this Colombian side could have what it takes to reach the final and perhaps lift the trophy. The passion, the desire to make amends for the past and the unity which exudes from the team is giving them the impetus to bring La Copa home.

Jack's score prediction: Colombia 3-1 Panama

Uruguay vs Brazil: Two Contrasting Camps

By far the pick of the matches of the quarters, Uruguay vs Brazil is set to be a tantalising affair. Both nations are experienced members of the competition, seeking to add another title to their collections.

Uruguay enter the match in top form. Securing maximum points, conceding 1 goal and being the highest goal-scorers in the group stage with 9, they are a huge threat. Bielsa ball has delivered with Uruguay playing a fast, fluid and ferocious brand of football, capable of blowing away any opponent. The only thing the Uruguayans need to keep in mind is the fact that they haven't played a top side as of yet. Yes, they won the group, but it was expected. Brazil will be a test despite their group form.

A Seleçao have been shadows of their previous tournament selves, barely crossing the line in their group. They've been inconsistent. An emphatic 4-1 win against Paraguay has been sandwiched by a frustrating 0-0 with Costa Rica and a controversial 1-1 draw with Colombia. Against Colombia they should've had a stonewall penalty, a pivotal moment which may have changed the negative narrative of Brazil entering the quarter-finals. Brazil are set to be without star man Vinicius Junior, after he picked up 2 yellow cards during the group games.

This is a difficult game to call with both teams possessing immense attacking talent. I think extra-time will be required to decide this match in an intense end-to-end game. Yet, I feel Bielsa's boys have the strength to overpower an underwhelming Brazilian side.

Jack's score prediction: Uruguay 3-2 Brazil (AET)