The Copa America 2024 group stage concluded with some unexpected twists as Brazil settled for a 1-1 draw against Colombia, while Costa Rica secured a 2-1 victory over Paraguay. Both matches, played on U.S. soil, brought excitement and drama as teams battled for positions in the knockout rounds.
Brazil, one of the tournament favorites, has not lived up to expectations so far. They began their Copa America campaign with a goalless draw against Costa Rica, then managed a win over Paraguay. Their final group match against Colombia at Levi’s Stadium in California was crucial to securing a top spot.
The match started with high intensity as both teams sought to assert dominance. Colombia nearly took an early lead when James Rodriguez’s impressive long-distance free-kick struck the crossbar. Brazil responded swiftly, with Raphinha seizing his moment from a set-piece, expertly placing his shot beyond the Colombian goalkeeper to give Brazil a 1-0 lead.
Colombia thought they had equalized soon after when Davinson Sanchez headed in a cross from Rodriguez. However, the goal was ruled out for offside, a decision met with frustration from the Colombian side. Brazil had their own controversial moment when Vinicius Jr. appeared to be tripped inside the box, but the referee decided against awarding a penalty.
As the first half drew to a close, Colombia finally found their equalizer. Right-back Daniel Munoz, benefiting from a precise pass from Jhon Cordoba, found the back of the net, marking his second goal of the tournament.
The second half saw both teams create several chances, but neither could convert, leading to a 1-1 draw. Despite the draw, both Brazil and Colombia advanced to the knockout rounds. Colombia topped the group and will face Panama, while Brazil will take on Uruguay.
Meanwhile, at the Q2 Stadium in Texas, Costa Rica faced Paraguay in a match that, while not pivotal for advancement, was significant for pride and morale. Costa Rica, having drawn against Brazil and lost to Colombia, aimed to end their group stage on a high note. Paraguay, yet to win a match in the tournament, hoped for a redeeming performance.
Costa Rica started the match explosively, scoring their first goal just three minutes in. Francisco Calvo’s glancing header found the net, setting the tone for an aggressive first half. Only four minutes later, Josimar Alcocer doubled the lead with a stunning solo effort. Alcocer picked up the ball near the halfway line, evaded defenders with blistering pace, and finished with a powerful shot into the bottom corner.
Paraguay managed to pull one back ten minutes into the second half when Ramon Sosa unleashed a powerful strike from the left side of the box. Despite this, Paraguay couldn’t find another goal, concluding their Copa America campaign with a third consecutive defeat.
As the group stage wraps up, the Copa America 2024 knockout rounds promise thrilling matchups. Brazil’s underwhelming performance so far leaves questions about their form as they face Uruguay. Colombia, buoyed by their solid group stage, looks forward to their quarter-final against Panama.
For Costa Rica, their victory over Paraguay serves as a positive end to their group stage, showing their potential despite not advancing further. Paraguay, on the other hand, leaves the tournament with lessons to learn and improvements to make for future competitions.
