adminHaving teamed up to devastating effect to win a historic treble for their club, Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Neymar now find themselves on opposite ends in the quest for a fourth title of the year and continental supremacy in the 44th edition of the Copa America.
Argentina, led by Messi, and a Neymar-led Brazil, are the favourites going into this year’s South American football showpiece and could meet in the semi-finals.
With decorated club careers but only a solitary Confederations Cup title to show in over 150 combined senior appearances for their countries, both players are desperate for international success.
The Copa is the perfect platform to alleviate their angst.
Even though the two powerhouses, Argentina and Brazil, are favourites, the tournament can be unpredictable.
Four years ago Messi and Neymar were powerless in stopping a rampant Uruguay, led by Luis Suarez and Diego Forlan, romping to the title.
Suarez and Forlan’s absence this year, due to suspension and retirement, might see La Celeste struggling to defend their title. If they are to successfully defend it, Edinson Cavani will have to fulfil his massive potential.
Home comforts and a strong and balanced squad which boasts of Claudio Bravo, Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez, could see Chile finally shedding the bridesmaid tag, having finished as runners-up four times. — Supersport
Online Reporter