“We Have Lionel Messi, but That Doesn’t Mean Anything”- Rodrigo De Paul on Argentina Being ‘Favorites’ for Copa America 2024

As the domestic season draws to a close, the countdown for the international campaign begins. Excitement builds for the much-anticipated 2024 Copa America, where 16 CONMEBOL nations will compete for the prestigious trophy. While reigning champions Argentina are favored to defend their title in the presence of iconic Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul asserts that the ‘favorite doesn’t always win.’

The Atletico Madrid midfielder knows the opposition would present significant challenges to the 2022 World Champions. “The expectations are always high, we have to defend what we accomplished. As the reigning champions, everyone will want to beat us, but I believe we are ready to face all of that,” said De Paul in an interview with ESPN Argentina. 

“We know we are one of the favorites because we are the last champions of America, the world, and because we have Leo. That doesn’t mean anything though, and football is beautiful because the favorite doesn’t always win. We are preparing like it’s the first time and we are very excited to bring joy once again,” added the 30-year-old. It looks like the formidable champions are in no mood to take things lightly. 

Despite the presence of the 8x Ballon d’Or winner, Lionel Scaloni and Co. would be hitting the reset button entering the tournament. Notably, having lifted the Copa America 15 times, the most ever, and tied with Uruguay, Argentina would begin their journey before playing friendly fixtures. They will face Ecuador on June 10 and Guatemala on June 14.

Certainly, Messi and Co. would be looking to clinch victory in either of the matches to boost their morale and hit the ground running. That said, let’s dive deeper to break down Argentina’s opponents.

A closer look at the rivals of Lionel Messi and Co. in 2024 Copa America

Argentina leads the Group A alongside Peru, Chile, and Canada. La Albiceleste will kick off the tournament on June 20 against Canada at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium. After that, they will face Chile at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on June 25. The final group stage match will be against Peru in Lionel Messi’s domestic side’s neighboring venue, the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. 

Their performance in the group stages will determine their placement in the next stage of the competition. Moving on to the other groups, Group B comprises Mexico, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Jamaica. Hosts USA lead Group C, accompanied by Uruguay, Panama, and Bolivia. Finally, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, and Costa Rica are placed in Group D. The finals are scheduled for July 14, 2024. 

Indeed, it’s going to be quite an enthralling contest. But all eyes will be on Lionel Messi and Argentina, who will go the extra mile to maintain their status as favorites.