The Copa America 2015 final will be a collision of stars, as some of the world finest footballers will be on parade.
Interesting Facts of the Copa America 2015:
- If Chile wins it, it will be their first ever Copa American trophy
- If Argentina wins this Copa America, they will join Uruguay in winning it most times (15)
- Champion of Copa America 2015 will automatically qualify for the Confederation cup of 2017 which will be held in Russia
- This will be Argentina’s 27th Copa America final
Goal Keeper: Claudio Bravo
The Chilean goal keeper came into the competition with full confidence following a successful debut season at FC Barcelona, recording 22 clean sheets in 38 league matches (the highest in Europe’s top 5 leagues). Bravo made several solid saves in the competition especially in the game against Bolivia. His ability to organize his defense on set-pieces is commendable. Bravo has conceded 4goals in 5matches – 3 of them against Mexico.
Left Full Back: Marcos Rojo
The Manchester United full back has shown great energy throughout the competition. He gives his team an extra outlet in attack, surging forward at the slightest opportunity while remaining strong and physical when defending. Rojo scored Argentina’s first goal against Paraguay in the Semi-final, with a neat finish after being picked out by a Messi pass.
Right Full Back: Mauricio Isla
Isla set the ground running from the opening match against Ecuador and maintained a high level of consistency in all Chile’s games so far in the competition. Isla dominates his line with authority; he brilliantly links up with his teammates in attacking moves, while sending several dangerous balls into the opposition area. He scored an 18-yard goal in the match against Uruguay, which turned out to be the deciding goal.
Center Back (left): Gary Medel
Chilean Coach Jorge Sampaoli made a few tweaks to his team, one of them was to convert the Inter Milan Midfielder to a central defender; a role he played brilliantly. The Chilean defense benefited in the make-shift defender’s unlimited energy reserves. He pulled off several neat tackles and deployed his physical presence in dealing with opposition attackers. He scored Chile’s fourth goal against Bolivia.
Center back (Right): Nicolas Otamendi
Otamendi is one of the most sought after defenders in Europe in this summer transfer window. The Valencia defender has being a solid rock in the Argentina defense and poses a serious Ariel threat to oppositions in set-piece situations. Otamendi is expected to be instrumental in stopping Eduardo Vargas in the final.
Defensive Midfielder: Javier Mascherano
The Barcelona man continue to prove that he is a natural leader, even though he generously accepted former Argentina coach Alejandro Sabela’s decision to pass the captain’s armband to Lionel Messi, he continued to share the leadership responsibilities with his Barcelona teammate. Neat tackles, cutting out dangerous and odd crosses, stepping out to disposes opponents, protecting the back four, staying calm in possession of the ball and brilliant distribution of the ball sum up Macherano’s performances in the Copa America.
Central Midfielder: Lionel Messi
Many would expect Messi to show signs of fatigue after completing a perfect season with Fc Barcelona; winning the La liga, Champions League and Copa del rey. However, Messi’s hunger to shine and win a trophy for the National team makes it look like the treble he won at the club level doesn’t count for anything. Gerardo Martino like his Chilean counterpart made an effective tweak to his side, by deploying Lionel Messi in the midfield. Playing in a new role (not as a false 9 or winger) Messi has proved his versatility. The 28yrs old performances in the midfield is reminiscent of Xavi at his peak. His pin point passed and controlled run were a sight to behold.
Central Midfielder: Aturo Vidal
Vidal’s participation in the Copa America almost came to an end after his involvement in a serious car crash during the group stages of the competition, but he managed to escape the Chilean FA’s sanction for misconduct. Vidal’s influence in the host’s national team cannot be over emphasized; his box to box approach makes him an extra man in defense midfield and attack. He is heavily involved in several attacking and defensive moves.
Right winger: Alexis Sanchez
The Arsenal man is one of the most creative forces in the host’s side. Constantly creating troubles for opposition defenses. Sanchez worked hard to make vital contributions to Chile’s free flowing attack and went on some mazy runs that kept the fans entertained. His neatly placed diving header against Bolivia was a deserved reward for his hard work in the previous matches. The goal put an end to his barrenness in front of goal.
Winger (left): Angel Di Maria
After a bad season at Manchester United, Di Maria seems determined to re launch himself as one of European clubs’ finest footballers. Highly energetic and full of speed, Argentina will need his pace and crosses to be able to defeat the host in the Final.
Striker: Eduardo Vargas
Vargas has been very effective in front of goal. He is benefiting from Chile’s free flowing attacking football and making the best of it. He will be a handful for the Argentina center backs in the final. Vargas is the joint highest goal scorer in the competition alongside Peru’s Paolo Guerrero.
Prediction: Chile 1 – Argentina 2
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