Profile of Copa América Teams: Colombia, Paraguay, and Costa Rica – Can James Rodríguez Lead Redemption?

With the 2024 Copa América on the horizon, Leisu Sports is presenting a series of profiles on the 16 teams that have qualified for the tournament. Today, we focus on Group D, featuring Colombia, Paraguay, and Costa Rica.

Colombia, currently ranked 12th in the world, has a talented squad, considered part of their “Golden Generation.” In the South American World Cup qualifiers, they held their own against powerhouses like Brazil and Uruguay, securing a third-place finish with a balanced performance in both defense and attack.

Historically, Colombia’s 2001 Copa América triumph, with an unbeaten and goalless run as hosts, remains unmatched. The nation, which has participated in six World Cups, has produced stars like Radamel Falcao and James Rodríguez, who made a significant impact in Europe.

After failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, Colombia appointed 58-year-old Argentine coach Nestor Lorenzo. Under his guidance, the team defeated Mexico and Paraguay in friendlies, reviving their form. During his tenure, Colombia has remained unbeaten in 13 wins and 5 draws. Alongside, the Colombian Football Federation launched the “Future Football” initiative, focusing on football development and innovation.

James Rodríguez, despite his recent nomadic club career, remains a key figure for Colombia. Despite his reduced visibility in top leagues, he aims to contribute to the national team and seek redemption in the Copa América.

In the 2021 edition, Colombia reached the semi-finals before being eliminated by Argentina on penalties, with their penalty-taking strategy sparking debate.

Colombia, paired with favorites Brazil in Group D, is expected to progress alongside Paraguay and Costa Rica. Their fixture schedule allows them to conserve energy for the elimination rounds, where they could potentially face the United States or Uruguay.

The preliminary squad includes notable names like goalkeeper David Ospina, defender Yerry Mina, and midfielder James Rodríguez, among others.

Paraguay, ranked 56th, has seen a decline in its international standing over the past decade. With disappointing performances in recent World Cup qualifiers and Copa América, they haven’t returned to the tournament since the 2010 World Cup quarterfinals. Manager Gustavo Alfaro, a proponent of attacking football, leads a team with Newcastle United’s Miguel Almirón as the standout player.

Costa Rica, often seen as the second force in CONCACAF behind the US, qualified for the last two World Cups and enters the Copa América with a young squad. Coach Gustavo Alfaro has promoted local talent, while relying on experienced players like Joel Campbell and up-and-comer Keylor Navas, although the latter recently retired from international duty.

As first-time Copa América participants, Costa Rica will look to utilize their counter-attacking speed and athleticism to upset the odds.

The group stage fixtures are as follows:

• June 25, 6:00 AM – Colombia vs. Paraguay, NRG Stadium
• June 25, 9:00 AM – Brazil vs. Costa Rica, SoFi Stadium
• June 29, 6:00 AM – Colombia vs. Costa Rica, State Farm Stadium
• June 29, 9:00 AM – Paraguay vs. Brazil, Las Vegas Stadium
• July 3, 9:00 AM – Brazil vs. Colombia, Levi’s Stadium
• July 3, 9:00 AM – Costa Rica vs. Paraguay, Q2 Stadium