Copa America 2021 Final: Confirmed Lineups

The Copa America 2021 final was a clash of titans, a South American super-derby between Argentina and Brazil. Football fans around the globe were waiting with bated breath to witness this epic encounter. The tension was palpable, the stakes were sky-high, and the atmosphere was electric. Before the ball even started rolling, everyone was eager to know the confirmed lineups for both sides. So, let's dive deep into the team selections and see what tactical masterstrokes the coaches had up their sleeves.

Argentina's Starting XI: A Blend of Experience and Flair

Argentina, led by their talismanic captain Lionel Messi, were determined to end their trophy drought. The pressure was on La Albiceleste to deliver, and coach Lionel Scaloni carefully crafted a lineup that balanced experience, grit, and attacking flair. Here’s a breakdown of the Argentina lineup that faced Brazil in the final:

• Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez. The Aston Villa shot-stopper had been a revelation throughout the tournament, his penalty-saving heroics in the semi-final against Colombia cementing his place as Argentina's undisputed number one. His presence in goal provided a sense of security and confidence to the entire team.
• Defense: The Argentinian defense was anchored by the experienced center-back pairing of Nicolás Otamendi and Cristian Romero. Otamendi, a veteran of many battles, brought his trademark aggression and aerial prowess to the backline. Romero, on the other hand, offered pace, tackling ability, and a calmness beyond his years. The full-back positions were occupied by Gonzalo Montiel on the right and Marcos Acuña on the left. Montiel provided a solid defensive presence, while Acuña offered an attacking outlet down the left flank with his overlapping runs.
• Midfield: The midfield was the engine room of the Argentinian side, tasked with winning the ball, dictating the tempo, and providing a platform for the attackers to shine. The trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Guido Rodríguez, and Giovani Lo Celso formed a dynamic midfield partnership. De Paul, with his tireless running and creative passing, was the heartbeat of the team. Rodríguez provided steel and defensive cover in the holding midfield role, while Lo Celso added guile and creativity with his dribbling and vision.
• Attack: The Argentinian attack was built around the brilliance of Lionel Messi. The captain, playing in what could potentially be his last major tournament for his country, was the focal point of the attack. He was partnered by the Inter Milan forward Lautaro Martínez, whose clinical finishing and intelligent movement made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Ángel Di María, with his experience and ability to produce moments of magic, completed the attacking trident.

This lineup showcased Argentina's blend of defensive solidity, midfield dynamism, and attacking firepower. The key to their success lay in their ability to execute their game plan effectively and nullify the threat posed by Brazil's star-studded attack.

Brazil's Starting XI: Samba Flair Meets Tactical Discipline

Brazil, the defending champions and tournament hosts, were the favorites heading into the final. Coach Tite had assembled a squad brimming with talent, experience, and tactical discipline. A Seleção were determined to retain their crown on home soil, and their starting XI reflected their ambition. Let's take a closer look at the Brazil lineup that faced Argentina:

• Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker. The Liverpool goalkeeper was one of the best in the world, and his presence in goal provided Brazil with a solid foundation. His shot-stopping ability, command of his area, and distribution skills made him a vital asset to the team.
• Defense: The Brazilian defense was a well-organized and experienced unit. The center-back pairing of Marquinhos and Thiago Silva provided a formidable barrier in front of Alisson's goal. Marquinhos, with his pace and reading of the game, was a rock at the back. Silva, a veteran of countless high-pressure matches, brought his experience and leadership to the team. The full-back positions were occupied by Danilo on the right and Renan Lodi on the left. Danilo offered a blend of defensive solidity and attacking prowess, while Lodi provided width and attacking impetus down the left flank.
• Midfield: The Brazilian midfield was a blend of steel and creativity. Casemiro, the Real Madrid midfielder, anchored the midfield with his tackling ability and positional sense. Fred, his Manchester United teammate, added energy and dynamism to the midfield. Lucas Paquetá, with his flair and creativity, provided the link between midfield and attack.
• Attack: The Brazilian attack was spearheaded by Neymar, the Paris Saint-Germain superstar. Neymar's dribbling skills, pace, and goal-scoring ability made him a nightmare for opposition defenders. He was supported by Everton Cebolinha on the left and Richarlison on the right. Everton's pace and trickery made him a dangerous threat, while Richarlison's work rate and finishing ability added another dimension to the attack. Gabriel Jesus led the line as the center-forward, his movement and link-up play creating space for his fellow attackers.

This lineup showcased Brazil's attacking firepower, midfield control, and defensive solidity. Their game plan revolved around dominating possession, creating chances for their attackers, and stifling Argentina's creative players.

Key Tactical Battles: Where the Final Was Won and Lost

The Copa America final was a tactical chess match, with both coaches making strategic decisions to gain the upper hand. Several key tactical battles unfolded on the pitch, which ultimately determined the outcome of the match.

• Messi vs. Casemiro: The battle between Lionel Messi and Casemiro was one of the most intriguing matchups of the final. Casemiro was tasked with nullifying Messi's threat, tracking his movements, and preventing him from influencing the game. Messi, on the other hand, looked to exploit the space between the lines and use his dribbling skills to create chances. The outcome of this battle had a significant impact on the flow of the game.
• Neymar vs. Argentina's Defense: Neymar was Brazil's main attacking weapon, and Argentina's defense had the daunting task of keeping him quiet. The likes of Otamendi and Romero had to be at their very best to contain Neymar's pace, trickery, and goal-scoring ability. Argentina's full-backs, Montiel and Acuña, also had a crucial role to play in tracking Neymar's runs and preventing him from cutting inside.
• Midfield Dominance: The midfield battle was crucial in determining which team would control the tempo of the game. Argentina's midfield trio of De Paul, Rodríguez, and Lo Celso looked to outwork and outplay their Brazilian counterparts. Brazil's midfield, led by Casemiro, Fred, and Paquetá, aimed to dominate possession and create chances for their attackers. The team that won the midfield battle gained a significant advantage in the match.

The Result: Argentina Ends Their Drought

In the end, it was Argentina who emerged victorious, defeating Brazil 1-0 to lift the Copa America trophy. Ángel Di María's first-half goal proved to be the difference between the two sides. Argentina's defense stood firm, weathering the Brazilian storm and denying them any clear-cut chances. Lionel Messi finally lifted a major trophy with his national team, ending Argentina's 28-year wait for silverware.

The Copa America 2021 final was a memorable encounter, full of drama, passion, and tactical intrigue. The confirmed lineups showcased the talent and depth of both squads, and the key tactical battles provided a fascinating insight into the coaches' strategies. Argentina's victory was a testament to their resilience, determination, and the brilliance of Lionel Messi. For Brazil, it was a disappointing end to their campaign, but they will undoubtedly be back stronger in the future. Guys, what did you think of the final lineups and the game itself? Let me know in the comments below!