Frank Christian
The 2024 edition of Copa America has been eventful, showcasing thrilling goals, intense battles, and captivating dramas both on and off the field. The tournament organized by CONMEBOL has left a lasting impression on fans with its memorable moments.
While renowned superstars like Lionel Messi and Darwin Nunez had relatively subdued performances, other players seized the opportunity to shine and make significant contributions to their teams.
In a tournament that lacked dominant attacking displays, defenders and midfielders excelled, filling the void left by the usual goal scorers. The Sporting News presents the standout performers of the competition, recognizing 11 players who left a mark in the United States.
The Best 11 of Copa America 2024
Sporting News Team of the Tournament (4-3-3): Emiliano Martinez (GK) — Jon Aramburu, Cristian Romero, Davinson Sanchez, Antonee Robinson — Stephen Eustaquio, James Rodriguez, Manuel Ugarte — Salomon Rondon, Lautaro Martinez, Luis Diaz.
Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez (ARG)
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez played a crucial role for Argentina throughout the 2024 Copa America, particularly highlighted by his heroics in the quarterfinal shootout against Ecuador. He maintained four clean sheets leading up to the final, facing significant challenges from opponents but standing tall.
Center-back: Cristian Romero (ARG), Davinson Sanchez (COL)
Cristian Romero of Argentina and Davinson Sanchez of Colombia, both finalists in 2024, showcased exceptional defensive skills. Romero’s disciplined and solid performance included a high success rate in duels and tackles without receiving any yellow cards. Sanchez’s dominance in the air and precise passing were instrumental for Colombia.
Full-back: Jon Aramburu (VEN), Antonee Robinson (USA)
Real Sociedad’s Jon Aramburu impressed on the right flank, excelling in tackling and key passes. Meanwhile, Antonee Robinson showed his quality for the USA with solid defensive contributions and key assists.
Midfield: Stephen Eustaquio (CAN), James Rodriguez (COL), Manuel Ugarte (URU)
Colombian star James Rodriguez was a standout player, breaking records with his assists and creative play. Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte displayed his two-way abilities effectively, while Canada’s Stephen Eustaquio provided stability in midfield under pressure.
Forward: Salomon Rondon (VEN), Lautaro Martinez (ARG), Luis Diaz (COL)
Forwards Lautaro Martinez and Salomon Rondon, along with winger Luis Diaz, showcased their attacking prowess. Martinez led the Golden Boot standings despite limited starting opportunities, Diaz dazzled with his dribbling skills and playmaking, while Rondon’s goal-scoring and defensive efforts were commendable.
