Copa America 2007 - A Look Back

Well, soccerfans, afficionados, addicts, and fiends, the 2007 Copa America in Venezuela has tearfully ended (for the Argentines that is) and it has delivered us a month of exciting football, dazzling displays of artistry, and superlative perfomances by teams and individuals alike. Herein I will recap the Cope America in my own eyes, feel free to throw boos at me or add comments whether you agree or not…

Brazil champions, surprised?

Absolutely not, although I would have bet money on Argentina to walk away with the Cup and celebrate the night away with Charlie, and reading about Maradona once again admitted into intensive care the following day. Brazil had a slow start, winning to Ecuador and Chile but losing to Mexico thanks to a glorious goal by N.Castillo that put him on the front pages and undoubtedly have caught the eyes of many top club scouts. Argentina cruised through their groups by efficiently making work of the 2007 Gold Cup Winners USA, Colombia, and Paraguay. But coming in the tourney as the defending champs, Brazil has upheld their dominance in South American soccer, but entertained its competitors to think they were beatable. Wrong.

Most Outstanding Player, Robinho?

No way. I don’t agree. Absolutely not. So what? Robinho has not impressed me by netting tournament high 6 goals as most outstanding player. I think without supporting cast players like J.Baptista, Gilberto Silva, Josue, and everyone’s favorite Vagner Love to provide the toca-toca, Robinho wouldn’t have amassed this tally. Adriano had 7 goals in the previous Copa America, big deal. I think the most outstanding player of the Copa America 2007 is a draw between Humberto Suazo and Nery Castillo. Both players were far more instrumental in their contributions to carrying their teams forward. Both players had big games when it was called on them. Both made things happen for the team, in more areas than scoring goals. It is so unfortunate that these superstars did not have the supporting cast of players of the same ilk as Brazilians. Everyone is good on Brazil. Not everyone is good on Mexico or Chile, or every other country on this planet.

Worst team in tournament? Yes, you know…

Ok, I’ll be nice. The USMNT (OOSA) was plain old lousy. It was disgusting to watch. I smirked, I cringed, I damn near threw up watching the boys in blue take on the big boys of our continent. Fresh from riding cloud 9 for winning the Gold Cup a couple weeks prior to the commencement, it didnt seem like the USA ever had a chance. Ever. Critics: "The US were seeded in a tough group, having to face teams like Argentina, paraguay, and Colombia." Colombia?? Colombia played like cowcrap but still were able to manage a win against mighty OOSA. With 3 straight losses and boasting a respectable -6 goal record, the US bowed out with their butts hurting from taking a firm beating. Oh well, back to the drawing board, focus on the youth, recruit over-the-hill moviestars to the MLS, and on the way we go again…

Note: the US led all teams in the tourney in the Fair Play category, which was to lead all others in getting the least yellow and red cards. Bravo Bradley, for preaching non-contact in a contact sport.

Most fun team to watch.

Mexico and Paraguay. Then Argentina when Argentina whupped Paraguay 6 – 0. Actually watching the US was loads of fun.

Most boring team to watch.

Close tie between Uruguay and Bolivia. Venezuela was up there too.

Biggest disappointment.

USA you think? No, Ecuador. Should have done lots better.