The Copa America quarter-finals are set, and all eyes are on a potential final rematch of epic proportions – Argentina versus Brazil in the final. Both South American giants secured their spots in the knockout stages, with Argentina boasting a dominant record and Brazil showcasing a pragmatic approach.
But can these arch-rivals overcome their respective challenges and clash in a battle for continental glory yet again?
All eyes naturally turn to Argentina, the reigning champions. The Albiceleste's last major international triumph came in 2021, a sweet victory over Brazil on home soil that ended a 28-year drought. Fans are understandably yearning for a repeat of that iconic clash, a rematch between the two South American giants in the final. CONMEBOL's group format dictates that this can only happen if both teams navigate their respective paths to the showpiece. This year's format pits the winners and runners-up of Groups A and B against each other in the quarter-finals. Argentina, as Group A winners, face Group B runners-up Ecuador. The other quarter-final sees Group A runners-up Canada take on Group B winners Venezuela.
Should Argentina overcome Ecuador, their semi-final opponent will be determined by the winner of the second quarter-final. This means Messi and Di Maria could face either Canada or Venezuela, with Lionel Scaloni's men booking their final berth with a semi-final victory.
The same scenario plays out for Groups C and D. Group C winners Uruguay face Group D runners-up Brazil. A win for the Celeste would set up a semi-final clash against either Colombia or Panama, winners and runners-up of Group D respectively. If Brazil emerge victorious, the dream final against Argentina becomes a distinct possibility.
The history books paint a fascinating picture when it comes to these two titans in Copa America finals. They've met an astonishing 11 times, with Argentina holding a significant edge. The Albiceleste have triumphed a staggering nine times, while Brazil have only managed to secure victory on two occasions.
The stage is set, then, for a potential twelfth encounter in the final. However, both Messi and Vinicius Jr. must navigate the quarter and semi-final hurdles before they can lock horns on the biggest stage. Only then will we witness whether Brazil can finally samba their way past Argentina and reclaim their Copa crown.
