The Copa América Centenario is set to make history tomorrow with a 100 year special edition tournament. Straying from the usual Copa America that happens every four years, as Chilé took home the cup last year and will be qualified for the 2017 Fifa Confederations Cup, unlike this years winner. The first game has the USA taking on Colombia at 9:30 p.m. EST, and we’ve got you covered on what you need to know for the big tournament.
CAC contains all 10 teams from the CONMEBOL (South American League) and 6 from the CONCACAF (North American League), which is an increase from the usual 12 teams. This marks the first time in the tournament’s 100 year existence that it will take place outside of South America. Ten cities have the honor to host games across the country. The venues range from Metlife Stadium in New Jersey to Levi Stadium in California.
The wait is almost over! @CA2016 kicks off Friday with #USMNT vs Colombia, 8pm ET on @FS1! #MyCopaColors #Copa100https://t.co/e5ho4deQXl
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 1, 2016
Top Contenders
Argentina – Enters Copa as the #1 ranked team in the world. Should reign supreme in Group D.
Brazil – Loaded with talent, paired with a weak Group B. Won four out of the last seven cups.
Chile – Became first team since 2001 to win the cup on their home turf in 2015.
Mexico – Enters with an incredible record since Juan Carlos Osorio was named manager.
USA – Playing on their home turf will help, but do they have enough firepower to compete?
Best Of The Rest
Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Haiti, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.
Young Stars To Watch For
Nicolas Castillo – Chile
Matias Kranevitter – Argentina
Andy Polo – Peru
Stephane Lambese – Haiti
Christian Pulisic – United States
Marlos Moreno – Colombia
Adalberto Penaranda – Venezuela
Jose Gimenez – Uruguay
Gabriel – Brazil
Where To Watch
FOX owns the broadcast rights to the entire Copa America tournament, so games will be broadcasted on the Fox Sports Network beginning tomorrow through June 26. You can also live stream it, legally. Tickets to games can be purchased on Ticketmaster.