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Liam Foster - June 9, 2024
USA, Bolivia, Panama, and Uruguay make up Group C, a group that appears to be one that could be wrapped up before the first kick of the tournament in late June.
Uruguay and USA are favorites to qualify from the group and seal passage to the quarter-finals, while Bolivia and Panama could find it hard to generate any serious momentum in the group stage.
Tagged underdogs by many, Panama is still capable of testing the resolve of USA, just like they did last summer in the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Upsets are allowed in football, and it will be interesting how Bolivia and Panama will approach the group matches.
Uruguay are overwhelming favourite to top this Copa America 2024 Group C, considering their experienced squad, quality, and tactical strength. With a mix of veteran players like Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani, alongside younger talents like Valverde, De La Cruz, and Darwin Nunez, Uruguay boasts a well-balanced team.
Their recent form has been impressive, with a 4-0 win over Mexico and a 0-0 result against Costa Rica in friendly matches. Their style of play, characterized by quick counter-attacks and solid defense, will pose a challenge to their group opponents.
Prediction: Considering their recent form and strengths, Uruguay is expected to finish top of Group C, but they must be wary of a motivated USA and Panama. With their eye set on the Copa America title, Uruguay is a team to watch in the tournament.
The Host nation heads into the tournament, not as favorites but perhaps dark-horse candidates. Their chances are promising, but challenging, alongside big footballing nations like Uruguay, Panama, and Bolivia in the same Group C.
The young American squad, led by talents like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Gio Reyna Tyler Adams, and Tim Weah, boasts pace and creativity. Their tactical flexibility, athleticism, and youthful energy will make them a competitive force in the group.
Their recent form has been encouraging, with a 2-0 win over Mexico and a 3-1 win over Jamaica. The USA’s style of play, characterized by high pressing and quick transitions, will trouble their group opponents.
Head Coach Gregg Berhalter will be under pressure to perform well, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, a group-stage exit would be unacceptable.
Prediction: Considering their recent form and strengths, USA is expected to push Uruguay hard and take advantage of opportunities against Panama and Bolivia to finish second in Group C.
Panama have a slim chance of making it out of this group that has powerhouse Uruguay, a young and talented USA, and a resilient Bolivia squad. Despite parading players like Anibal Godoy, Adalberto ‘Coco’ Carrasquilla, and Ismael Diaz, they lack depth and quality compared to USA and Uruguay.
Their recent form has been poor, with a 3-0 loss to Mexico and a 1-0 loss to Jamaica in their last two matches. Panama’s style of play, characterized by physicality and counter-attacks, will struggle to keep up with the pace and skill of Uruguay and USA.
Prediction: Considering their form and strengths, they are predicted to finish third. Their chances of advancing appear slim, as their tactical rigidity and lack of creativity will make it difficult for them to compete against stronger opponents.
Bolivia’s lack of depth and quality compared to their group opponents leaves them in a vulnerable state in a group that has powerhouse Uruguay, a young and talented USA, and a physical Panama.
Their recent form has been inconsistent, with a 1-0 loss to Mexico and a 1-0 win over Andorra in friendly matches. Bolivia’s playing style, characterized by quick counter-attacks and physicality, will struggle to keep up with the pace and skill of Uruguay and USA.
They will rely on their set piece and counter-attacking abilities, but their lack of creativity and possession football will make it hard for them to compete against stronger opposition.
Prediction: Considering their form and strengths, Bolivia should finish fourth in the Group. It will be difficult for them to secure a win in this group.
This round 3 clash could decide Group C winner. Uruguay is predicted to win this clash since they have won more H2H Copa America meetings and possess more quality players.
This match is predicted to end in a draw with both sides having a relatively even chance of winning. It is a round 3 encounter that might count for less.
Group C will be interesting to watch. Uruguay is the favorite, but USA will definitely give them a fight for a top-place finish. Bolivia and Panama won’t come easy, as they are capable of causing upsets. Anticipate a group stage with close encounters and a fight for every point.
