Copa América - Where Football Meets Art

By Author: Wasim Akram
Total Articles: 1
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South America has carved its own niche when it comes to numerous art and dance forms. The Samba and the Argentinian Tango are among the most popular gifts of South America to the world. However, when it comes to sports, the South Americans are famous for assimilating the fluidity of dance into their football, thereby giving us a form of sport which is no less than a theatrical event. Such football encounters are present in abundance at the CONMEBOL Copa América - the most premier football tournament in South America. Held since 1916, it is older than the FIFA World Cup itself.

The main spectacle was held quadrennially since 2007 with the host nation being a part of the CONMEBOL. Since 1993, 12 teams have fought for this highly coveted prize with 10 spots reserved for CONMEBOL members and the remaining two spots are awarded through an invite to nations belonging to other confederations. There have been a few exceptions.

The Copa América Centenario in 2016 was hosted in the USA. It became the first time that the competition was hosted by a CONCACAF nation and also featured 16 teams instead of the usual 12.

Filled ...
... with a lot of drama and heart-stopping moments, the encounters are high intensity as national pride is at stake for all competing nations. One such example is the 2001 quarter final between Honduras and Brazil. Known for its dominant status in the world of football, Brazil were clear favorites. However, an own goal by Juliano Belletti and a calm finish by Saul Martinez led underdogs Honduras to the semi-finals. The event has also witnessed many fierce rivalries, most notably the Brazil vs Argentina fixture which always stands tall and has delivered moments filled with passion, excitement and blood.

The 2021 Copa América will be hosted by Argentina and Colombia. Never low on star quality, the tournament has featured legends of the sport like Pelé, Diego Maradona, Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. As the third most popular international football tournament, it is an event that is looked forward to with bated breath by football fans all across the world.
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