Copa América 2024: Our Team of the Tournament
As we approach the final showdown between Argentina and Colombia in Miami, it’s time to reflect on the standout performers of this summer’s competition. Luis Miguel Echegaray shares his best XI from Copa América 2024, featuring players who consistently impressed throughout the tournament.
Goalkeeper: Martínez (Argentina)
Selecting a goalkeeper from this tournament was no easy task, given the numerous moments of brilliance from shot-stoppers across the competition. However, Martínez deserves the nod for his impressive performance. He boasted the best clean sheet percentage, helping Argentina keep a clean sheet in the group stage and only conceding one goal leading up to the final. His impressive save percentage (90%) was the highest among goalkeepers who made it out of the group stages.
Defenders: Muñoz (Colombia), Romero (Argentina), Pacho (Ecuador), Caicedo (Ecuador)
Muñoz was a revelation for Colombia until his red card against Uruguay. Despite his momentary lapse, he was outstanding overall, leading his team in tackles won and interceptions. Romero, often referred to as the world’s best defender by Lionel Messi, was a rock for Argentina, carrying the ball forward and allowing his team to settle. Pacho was a main reason why Ecuador pushed Argentina to penalties, with nearly 10 clearances per match. Caicedo, a box-to-box threat, was everywhere, leading his team in tackles and interceptions.
Midfielders: Ugarte (Uruguay), James Rodríguez (Colombia)
Ugarte was the heart and lungs of Uruguay’s midfield, providing consistency and solidity. He led the competition in tackles as a midfielder and was second in interceptions. James Rodríguez, on the other hand, was a creative force, leading the tournament in goal involvements with a goal and six assists.
Forwards: Rondón (Venezuela), Shaffelburg (Canada), Díaz (Colombia)
Rondón, the all-time scorer for Venezuela, was a force in the air, winning seven of eight aerial duels. Shaffelburg, a headache for fullbacks, scored the opener against Venezuela and won multiple duels. Díaz, a Swiss Army knife, worked tirelessly to protect his team’s lead against Uruguay, providing a perfect complement to his hard work and flair.
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