The Copa America final is set as Argentina and Colombia will meet Sunday with the coveted trophy on the line, but this is a cyclical moment as well. Colombia are unbeaten for a team-record 28 consecutive matches, but the last team to best them was Argentina on February 1, 2022. It has been more than two years since Los Cafeteros have seen defeat, but Argentina are looking to win their third consecutive major title to cement their dynasty. After winning the 2020 Copa America and 2022 World Cup, this title would be a trifecta for Lionel Messi and Lionel Scaloni to go into the World Cup on.
As these two teams meet, here are a few things that could define the match:
1. Keep track of set plays
During Copa America, no team has been better than Colombia at maximizing their chances from dead ball situations. Four of James Rodriguez’s six assists have come from set plays, using Davidson Sanchez and Rodrigo Munoz as targets to maximize the advandate Colombia has in the air. While Argentina can’t match the Columbian’s size, this is a very physical team with an excellent keeper in Emilano Martinez. Argentina won’t be beaten easily in net, but they have to keep track of everyone on Colombia during set plays.
When even midfielders like Jefferson Lerma can rise above the defense, there’s so much variation to how Colombia can set up. Most teams have one or two chief targets in set piece scenarios, but for Colombia, everyone can hurt you. It’ll be a lot to keep up with, but if anyone can do it, it’s Argentina.
2. The battle of the 10’s
If asked who the best number 10 was in Copa America, the assumption would be that it’s Messi, but Rodriguez’s production has far outpaced Messi’s during the tournament so far. Messi missed Argentina’s final group stage match with a hamstring injury and only has one goal and one assist in the tournament. While still getting into good positions, Messi has been…
