The Copa 2024 was filled with thrills, drama, and excitement as we witnessed incredible action throughout the tournament. We saw veteran players like James Rodriguez inspire Colombia in their magical run to the final. Several teams made their mark in the competition with jaw-dropping performances that not only left a lasting impression on the fans but also proved their credentials in the tournament.
Brazil were among the teams that have secured a spot in the Copa 2024 quarter-finals after delivering an outstanding performance against Paraguay in the group stage. Uruguay performed energetically throughout the tournament but ultimately fell short at the final hurdle. Colombia, despite not winning the trophy, won the hearts of fans with their impressive display. Now, let’s take a look at the top five matches that captivated fans with their powerful performances.
Argentina vs Canada
The defending champions Argentina started their title defence against tournament debutant Canada in the opening match. Lionel Scolani’s team faced a tough challenge as Jesse Marsch’s team put up a spirited performance, causing several problems for them. In the first half, both teams recorded 7 shots, with Argentina having two shots on target compared to Canada’s one. The defending champions dominated the game, holding the majority of possession with 66%, while Canada had 34%. 
During the second half, Argentina dominated the game, taking 12 shots compared to their opponent’s three. Julian Alvarez scored the first goal for Argentina in the 49th minute with a strike into the bottom right corner. Despite several missed opportunities, Argentina maintained their lead. Lautaro Martinez scored the second goal, securing Argentina’s victory and maintaining their perfect start to the tournament.
Paraguay vs Brazil
In the first half of the match, Brazil demonstrated a dominant performance by scoring three goals within the final 15 minutes. Vinicius Junior secured two goals at the 35th and 45+5th minute marks, and Savio netted another goal in the 43rd minute. Brazil outperformed Paraguay in the number of shots taken, with 11 shots to Paraguay’s 8, and efficiently converted their opportunities by scoring from 4 of their shots on target, in contrast to Paraguay’s 3.
The second half witnessed Brazil’s strategic play as they slowed down the game and implemented precise passing to regain control. Paraguay attempted to overturn their fortune with seven shots in the latter half. Their determination bore fruit in the 48th minute when Omar Alderete’s left footed strike from outside the box found the net, sparking a glimmer of hope for Paraguay. However, hopes were dashed when Brazil were awarded a crucial penalty in the 63rd minute after a handball offence by Paraguayan Mathias Villasanti in the box. Lucas Paqueta calmly stepped up and expertly converted the penalty, securing a definitive victory for Brazil.
Colombia vs Panama
Colombia, after finishing at the top of their group, faced Panama in the quarter final. James Rodriguez led the team impressively by justifying their favourites tag with a brilliant display of football, winning 5-0. Despite Panama having more shots in the first half (7) compared to Colombia’s 4, Colombia managed to score three goals in the first half. Panama came close to scoring in the 18th minute, but Roderick Miller’s shot hit the crossbar, denying them a goal.
Panama had a strong start in the second half, creating several scoring opportunities and attempting seven shots on goal, compared to Colombia’s three. However, their poor finishing cost them the match. Meanwhile,Colombia were relentless and managed to convert their chances, scoring two more goals to secure a convincing 5-0 victory. Richard Rios scored in the 70th minute, and a superb strike from Miguel Borja in the 90+4 minute sealed their dominant win in the quarter-final.
Uruguay vs Colombia
Featuring two high-performing teams in a high stakes semifinal. Colombia started well, creating several chances in the opening hour. Darwin Nunez had the best opportunities for Uruguay in the first half but failed to score. Jefferson Lerma scored the opening goal with a fine header from James Rodriguez’s cross in the 39th minute. However, in added extra time, Daniel Munoz was sent off for elbowing a Uruguayan player, changing the dynamics of the match.
In the second half, Uruguay dominated possession with 74% compared to Colombia’s 26%. Uruguay attempted more shots (7) than Colombia (4), but it was the visitors who created three big chances compared to Uruguay’s none. Despite making 253 passes, Uruguay couldn’t score as Colombia’s defence held strong. The frustration was evident for Marcelo Bielsa’s team as they came close to losing the match. In the 90+8 minute, Uruguay’s Guillermo Varela received a straight red card for violent conduct as Colombia sealed the victory.
Argentina vs Colombia
The stage was ready for a big showdown. If Argentina wins, they will have 16 titles, more than Uruguay’s 15 and will ultimately become the undisputed team in this competition. If Colombia wins, it will be their first title. Colombia made a strong start with eight shots compared to Argentina’s three in the first half, testing Emiliano Martinez four times. Jhon Cordoba almost scored in the seventh minute, but hit the post.
Colombia started the second half strongly, with Davinson Sanchez and Santiago Arias missing two great chances to score. In the 66th minute, Argentina suffered a setback when Lionel Messi was substituted due to an injury. Nicolas Gonzalez thought he had scored the winner in the 75th minute however, the goal was disallowed for offside.
The match ended goalless, leading to an extra 30 minutes of play. The first half of extra time was even, with neither team creating clear chances. However, Lautaro Martinez scored the winning goal in the 112th minute after being set up by Giovani Lo Celso. The stadium erupted as a tearful Lionel Messi lifted the Copa title once again, successfully defending the title.
