The Copa 2024 has concluded with Argentina successfully defending their title. La Albiceleste secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Colombia in the finals, overtaking Uruguay as the record champions with 16 titles. The tournament captivated fans with incredible records, including Canada’s historic achievement of reaching the semifinals in their debut. James Rodriguez overtook Lionel Messi’s record of five assists to become the first player to record six assists in the competition.
While some teams enjoyed impressive runs, the host USA disappointed everyone by failing to qualify for the quarterfinals. Argentina dominated the Copa 2024, with Lautaro Martinez winning the Golden Boot, having scored five goals and Emiliano Martinez standing firm at goal, keeping five clean sheets and receiving the Golden Glove. James Rodriguez’s resurgence earned him the Player of the Tournament award after guiding Colombia to the finals with his magical displays.
Based on players who dominated the tournament and played crucial roles in their team’s performances, we present WSG’s Copa XI:
GK: Emiliano Martinez (Argentina)
Emiliano Martinez has been in outstanding form for Argentina over the past couple of years. He played a massive part in Argentina retaining their trophy. The Aston Villa goalkeeper was deservedly awarded the Golden Glove for his excellent performance in the Copa 2024. Martinez kept five clean sheets during the tournament, with the most important coming against Colombia in the final. He is a commanding goalkeeper, excellent with the ball at his feet, and can make match-saving saves with ease.
RB: Daniel Munoz (Colombia)
Among the top right-backs in the world, it was Colombia’s Daniel Munoz who stood out. The Crystal Palace right-back secured his place in the team with his all-around display, scoring two goals and providing an assist. Despite missing the Copa 2024 final due to a red card in the semifinal against Uruguay, Munoz’s 17 recoveries, 12 tackles, and 6 interceptions throughout the tournament showcased his importance to the team. 
CB: Cristian Romero (Argentina)
Cristian Romero has cemented his position as the undisputed center-back for Argentina. The Tottenham man leads from the back, commands respect, and loves physical duels, often getting into attackers’ heads. His impressive numbers in Copa 2024 include 15 tackles, 9 interceptions, and 21 recoveries, significantly contributing to Argentina’s victory.
CB: William Pacho (Ecuador)
Despite Ecuador’s quarterfinal exit, William Pacho had a fantastic tournament. He made 4 tackles and interceptions each, and was dribbled past only once, showcasing his defensive abilities. Known for his diagonal passes, Pacho registered 18 accurate long balls, attracting interest from top European clubs.
LB: John Aramburu (Venezuela)
John Aramburu earned his place in WSG’s Copa XI with his stellar performance on the left flank for Venezuela. Playing for Villarreal in La Liga, Aramburu impressed with his excellent distribution, registering 2 assists in three matches. Defensively, he recorded 18 tackles, the most by any player, 15 recoveries, and 4 interceptions, remarkable for a 21-year-old in his first major international tournament.
CM: Moises Caicedo (Ecuador)
Moises Caicedo had a fantastic Copa 2024, nearly pulling off a shock against Argentina in the quarterfinal. A tenacious midfielder, Caicedo covered every inch of the pitch, with stats including 20 recoveries, 4 tackles, and 10 interceptions. His relentless performance earned him a rightful place in WSG’s Copa XI.
CM: Manuel Ugarte (Uruguay)
Manuel Ugarte, under Marcelo Bielsa, has become Uruguay’s engine room. He delivered a power-packed performance, making 34 recoveries, winning 19 tackles, and recording 7 interceptions and 3 crucial blocks. Ugarte’s relentless pressing helped Uruguay reach the Copa 2024 semifinals, making him a vital member of this team.
RW: Jacob Shaffelburg (Canada)
Jacob Shaffelburg earned his place in WSG’s Copa XI after guiding Canada to a Copa 2024 fourth-place finish. The Nashville SC winger was one of Canada’s standout performers, contributing a goal and an assist. Shaffelburg created six chances, had 22 touches in the opposition box, and also made 9 recoveries, 7 tackles, and 3 interceptions.
AM: James Rodriguez (Colombia)
James Rodriguez was arguably the best player in Copa 2024. He registered 6 assists, the most in the tournament, and scored a goal against Panama in the quarterfinal. Rodriguez created the most chances (20) and successful crosses (24), while also contributing defensively with 24 recoveries, 4 tackles, and 2 interceptions.
LW: Luis Diaz (Colombia)
Luis Diaz had a successful Copa 2024, playing an effective role for Colombia. The Liverpool winger scored two goals and created eight chances. His defensive contributions included 18 recoveries, 5 tackles, and a crucial block, highlighting his all-around performance.
ST: Lautaro Martinez (Argentina)
Lautaro Martinez played a crucial role in Argentina’s title defense, winning the Golden Boot with five goals. His most important goal came in the final against Colombia, securing the victory in the dying minutes of extra time. Martinez’s heroics ensured back-to-back Copa America titles for Argentina.
