Copa America 2011 Preview – Group A
Group A
Argentina (Hosts)
Costa Rica (CONCACAF Invitation – Replaces Japan)
Colombia
Bolivia
Hosts Argentina are strong favourites to win Group A and contain an embarrassing wealth of attacking talent with Tevez, Aguero, Higuain, Di Maria, Milito, Pastore and Lionel Messi. Coach Sergio Batista although experimental seems far less erratic than predecessor and Argentinian legend Diego Maradona and will look to win the tournament for the first time since 1995. Argentina have won at least 3 of the last 5 meetings against every opponent in Group A. Argentina have also reached the final in the last two tournaments; losing to rivals Brazil on both occasions.
Costa Rica took less than a day to accept their invitation to the 43rd Copa America after Japan withdrew from the tournament. Costa Rica like CONCACAF fellow invitees Mexico opted to take their strongest squad to the Gold Cup in America and so the likes of Bryan Ruiz of FC Twente will not feature.
Colombia should qualify from Group A and look a decent back to lay bet at 34.0. Colombia have a good record in the tournament and have reached the semi-finals in 5 of the last 8 Copa Americas. Colombia can call upon the likes of Guarin and star striker Radamel Falcao both of Porto, as well as Hugo Rodallega of Wigan, Cuadrado and Zapata both of Udinese.
Bolivia are another side expected to struggle and have not won a game in the tournament since 1997. Wigan fans may recall striker Marcelo Martins who will undoubtedly be one of Gustavo Quinteros’ key players if they are to break this record, which may fall when they face Costa Rica on the 7th of July.
GROUP WINNERS: Argentina
FORECAST: Argentina 1st, Colombia 2nd, Bolivia 3rd, Costa Rica 4th
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