The Copa America 2019 is heading toward the knockout stage but four group stage matches must be played before the tournament’s quarterfinals.
Teams in Group B and Group C have a lot to play for and Sunday’s and Monday’s matches will have a direct effect on the tournament’s outcome.
Qatar vs. Argentina
Qatar are special guests at this year’s Copa America, and thus far, have done well in their two matches. The Qataris earned a draw against Paraguay in their opener before losing to Colombia in match two. They can still move into the knockout round based on their performance against Argentina.
Argentina have been a disappointment. Lionel Messi has been their only bright spot while the rest of his teammates have misfired. If Argentina are to get a result, it will be down to Messi. Argentina are on the verge of elimination.
The Argentines have too much quality in their side to lose. Expect the Argentines to stumble to victory.
Winner: Argentina
Colombia vs. Paraguay
Colombia have already won Group B. The Colombians have been brilliant having beaten Argentina 2-0 and Qatar 1-0. Duvan Zapata has scored twice in two matches.
Paraguay have earned two draws. They gave up leads in both games letting Qatar and Argentina back into their matches.
Colombia have no need to win their third fixture as they are already through to the next round. Paraguay are fighting to stay in the Copa America but they just aren’t as good as the Colombians.
Winner: Colombia
Monday, June 24th
Chile vs. Uruguay
The bookies have Uruguay as the second favorite currently following Argentina’s poor performances. The Uruguayans did stumble against Japan in their second Group C match. They had to come from behind twice to earn a 2-2 draw.
Chile are back to back Copa America winners. Despite their players struggling at the club level, they put things together at the international level time and again.
Chile’s Alexis Sanchez has scored in back to back matches. Uruguay’s Luis Suarez has also scored in two straight games. Backing one of the two — or both — to score on Monday night could pay off.
These sides are quite even and a draw looks good for their meeting on Monday.
Result: Draw
Ecuador vs. Japan
After being hammered by Chile in their Copa America opener, Japan rebounded from a 2-2 draw against Uruguay. Their defence gave up two leads against Uruguay.
Ecuador have scored just once while conceding six times. Their only goal came from a penalty against Chile. There isn’t much quality through the Ecuador side. Japan are a young team and the Copa America is a chance for their international players of tomorrow to get some experience.
Japan are the better side and should just edge the match on Monday and earn a spot in the quarterfinals of Copa America.
Winner: Japan
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