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Argentina vs. Colombia: Lionel Messi vs. James Rodriguez and other keys to the Copa America final

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1 month ago

July 12, 2024

Argentina vs. Colombia: Lionel Messi vs. James Rodriguez and other keys to the Copa America final

The Copa America final is scheduled as Argentina And Colombia the coveted trophy will be at stake, but this is also a cyclical moment. Colombia are undefeated for a team-record 28 consecutive matches, but the last team to beat them was Argentina on February 1, 2022. It’s been more than two years since Los Cafeteros have suffered a defeat, but Argentina is looking to win for the third time in a row . important title to strengthen their dynasty. After winning the 2020 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, this title would be a trifecta for Lionel Messi and Lionel Scaloni to go to the World Cup.

As these two teams meet, here are a few things that could determine the matchup:

1. Keep track of set plays

During the Copa America, no team has been better than Colombia at maximizing their chances from dead ball situations. Four of James Rodriguez’s six assists came from set-piece situations Davidson Sánchez and Rodrigo Munoz as a target to maximize Colombia’s advantage in the air. Although Argentina cannot match the size of the Colombian, this is a very physical side with an excellent goalkeeper in Emilano Martinez. Argentina won’t be easily beaten in the net, but they need to keep an eye on everyone in Colombia during set plays.

If even midfielders like that Jefferson Lerma can rise above the defense, there is so much variation in the way Colombia can position itself. Most teams have one or two main goals in set scenarios, but for Colombia, anyone can hurt you. It will be a lot to keep track of, but if anyone can do it, it’s Argentina.

2. The Struggle of the 1910s

If asked who was the best number 10 in the Copa America, the assumption would be Messi, but Rodriguez’s production has easily surpassed Messi’s in the tournament so far. Messi missed Argentina’s final group match with a hamstring injury and has just one goal and one assist in the tournament. Although he still got into good positions, Messi has uncharacteristically missed opportunities to score, and this injury could affect his play. Meanwhile, Rodriguez has turned back the clock with a goal and a record six assists during the tournament.

Rodriguez, the favorite to be the Copa America player of the tournament, has been able to drag defenders all over the pitch, giving Luis Diaz the space he needs to thrive and keep Colombia going. Over the course of Rodriguez’s career, Carlo Ancelotti has been the best manager to get the most out of Rodriguez, but Nestor Lorenzo is showing he can also use the enigmatic 10.

3. Stay away from the enforcement officer

While Messi has his bodyguard off the pitch, Rodrigo De Paul is the enforcer there for Argentina. Trying to go through him is generally a bad idea, as he blows up attacks that come his way. Once he has won the ball, he can also start the attack by passing it to one of the talented Argentine creators. How Lorenzo plans to get through the middle of the field will make or break this match.

De Paul will be keeping a close eye on Rodriguez and Colombia will have to move the ball in other ways. Without Munoz, how they do that will be something to keep an eye on, as Argentina will also be keeping an eye on Diaz on the wing.