Copa America 2024 in the United States: What's the format and how many matches are there?
With just over two weeks until the kickoff of Copa America 2024, let’s delve into how this prestigious tournament will unfold, from its format to the participating teams and favorite to lift the trophy.
This edition marks the second time the tournament will be hosted in the United States, following a special 2016 edition commemorating its centenary.
Back then, the Chilean national team clinched their second Copa America title, having also triumphed in 2015, defeating Argentina in both finals.
So, who will compete in Copa America 2024?
Sixteen national teams will vie for the continental crown, with ten teams hailing from the South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) and an additional six from the North, Central American, and Caribbean Confederation (Concacaf).
Representing Conmebol are Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Meanwhile, Concacaf will be represented by Canada, Costa Rica, United States, Jamaica, Mexico, and Panama.
What’s the tournament format?
The 16 teams will be divided into four groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group will progress to the quarter-finals, followed by semi-finals to determine the finalists. Additionally, there will be a third-place playoff.
Here are the groups for Copa America 2024:
- Group A: Argentina, Peru, Chile, Canada
- Group B: Mexico, Ecuador, Venezuela, Jamaica
- Group C: United States, Uruguay, Panama, Bolivia
- Group D: Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, Costa Rica
How many matches will be played?
A total of 32 matches will be played to crown the new continental champion:
- 24 matches in the group stage
- 4 quarter-final matches
- 2 semi-final matches
- 1 match for third place
- The final, set to take place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on 14 July.
The tournament kicks off on 20 June at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, with an opening clash between Argentina and Canada.