Here are 16 Players to Watch (one from each country) as Copa America kicks off

More than 400 of the best soccer players in the Americas take center stage as Copa America 2024 gets underway in Atlanta with defending champion Argentina taking on Canada at Mercedes Benz Stadium.

The tournament runs from June 20 to July 14 in 13 cities across the United States, with the championship game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Many of the players are household names, such as Lionel Messi, Vinicius Junior, Luis Suarez and Christian Pulisic. Others are lesser known outside their countries, and Copa America will give them a chance to showcase their skills to fans and scouts all over the world.

Here are 16 players to keep an eye on:

Lionel Messi (ARGENTINA)

The Inter Miami star and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner felt a giant load lifted off his shoulders when Argentina won the 2022 World Cup, as that trophy was the only one missing from his illustrious resume. But he wants more and would love to see Argentina defend its Copa America title. He turns 37 on June 24 and has Miami in first place in the MLS standings with 12 goals and 13 assists in 12 games.

Miguel Terceros (BOLIVIA)

If you’re looking for an up-and-coming player to watch, keep an eye on this 20-year-old Santos midfielder they call “Miguelito.” La Verde will miss retired Marcelo Martins Moreno, But Terceros is entertaining and has plenty of upside.

Vinicius Junior (BRAZIL)

Superstar Neymar is injured, so Vinicius Junior will take center stage for Brazil. The 23-year-old Real Madrid forward, known for his speed and dribbling, became the youngest player to score in two Champions League finals, beating Lionel Messi’s record by 13 days. He also was named the UEFA Champions League Player of the Season with six goals and five assists. He also is known for his anti-racism activism. P.S. Watch out for 17-year-old left-footed striker Endrick, who will join Real Madrid next season and scored for Brazil in a friendly against England at Wembley in March.

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