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Atlanta Shines as Host for Copa America USA 2024: A Celebration of South American Soccer in the United States

By Arthur Fernandes

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JULY 10: Details of the Conmebol Copa America Trophy ,prior the Conmebol Copa America 2021 Final Match between Brazil and Argentina at Maracana Stadium on July 10, 2021 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - JULY 10: Details of the Conmebol Copa America Trophy ,prior the Conmebol Copa America 2021 Final Match between Brazil and Argentina at Maracana Stadium on July 10, 2021 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images) /
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In the heart of the bustling city of Atlanta, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home of Atlanta United, will host the opening match of Copa America USA 2024, marking the beginning of an epic journey for South American teams. The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) enthusiastically announced the choice of this vibrant metropolis as the starting point for the 48th edition of the world’s oldest soccer competition.

The decision to bring Copa America to North American soil once again demonstrates the globalization of the sport and the growing passion for soccer in the United States. With the participation of 16 teams, including South American powerhouses and representatives from CONCACAF, the competition promises to be a high-level spectacle, uniting cultures and celebrating soccer diversity.

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Argentina, the current titleholder, will enter the tournament not only as the reigning Copa America champion but also as the recent winner of the FIFA World Cup. The presence of Atlanta United midfielder Thiago Almada as an active MLS world champion adds a special touch and highlights the internationalization of soccer talent.

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – JULY 10: Lionel Messi of Argentina lift and kiss the Conmebol Copa America Trophy after winning the Final of Copa America Brazil 2021 ,during the Final Match between Brazil and Argentina at Maracana Stadium on July 10, 2021 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – JULY 10: Lionel Messi of Argentina lift and kiss the Conmebol Copa America Trophy after winning the Final of Copa America Brazil 2021 ,during the Final Match between Brazil and Argentina at Maracana Stadium on July 10, 2021 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images) /

The records shared by Argentina and Uruguay, both with 15 Copa America titles, bring a unique intensity to the tournament, while Brazil seeks to narrow the gap with its nine titles. Other South American nations, such as Paraguay, Chile, and Peru, also have the opportunity to make their mark on the tournament, solidifying their soccer aspirations.

The decision to extend the tournament until July 14th will provide fans with an extended and thrilling experience, culminating in an epic final. Additionally, the choice of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium as the venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup reinforces the United States’ position as an international hub for soccer.

Copa America USA 2024 is more than just a tournament; it is a celebration of passion for soccer, fair competition, and the unity of nations around a sport that transcends borders. Atlanta, with its vibrant atmosphere and diversity, is ready to welcome the soccer world and create memories that will be etched in the history of this captivating sport. Bring on the summer of 2024, full of goals, intense rivalries, and moments that will forever remain in the memories of soccer fans.

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