All Eyes on These Copa Players
An exciting Copa América group stage gives way to what should be an enthralling quarterfinal round, highlighted by a blockbuster matchup between powerhouses Brazil and Uruguay. Let’s take a look at a group of players who could be critical in their team’s chances for success in the knockout stages of the tournament. Whether living legends or youngsters on the rise, these stars are certainly worth keeping your eyes on.
2024 MLS TOPPS NOW® Card 46 Lionel Messi
Player Info
• Captain of defending Copa América and World Cup Champion Argentina
• 13 career goals at Copa América (fourth all-time)
• Might be his last major tournament for Argentina
the story so far
• Leads 2024 Copa América with six big chances created (in only two games)
• Picked up injury against Chile, questionable for Quarterfinal against Ecuador
what they’re saying
• “The best in the world is Messi; the second best is Messi, injured.” – Argentinian World Cup Winner Jorge Valdano
Kendry Paez of Ecuador takes a penalty kick to score the team’s second goal during Copa America 2024(Photo by Candice Ward/Getty Images)
Kendry Páez
Player Info
• Named Outstanding Player at 2022 Next Generation Tournament
• Joining EPL club Chelsea in July 2025 after his 18th birthday
the story so far
• 17-year old wunderkind started all 3 games for Ecuador
• Became 2nd-youngest scorer in Copa América history
what they’re saying
• “He has the potential to be better than Messi and Neymar…Players like him aren’t born every day…” – Carlos Tenorio, former Ecuadorian International
Topps UCL Living Set Card #475 Jonathan David
Player Info
• Scored 27 goals in 52 international appearances for Canada
• Linked to EPL clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea
the story so far
• Scored beautiful goal in key win against Peru
• Helped Canada qualify for quarterfinal in first-ever Copa América
what they’re saying
• “He operates on his own rhythm…he’s unbelievably fast and is always a good finisher.” – Canadian Forward Theo Bair
2022 MLS TOPPS NOW® Card 200 Jhon Duran
Player Info
• Scored 5 goals in debut season at EPL’s Aston Villa
• Linked to Chelsea and West Ham
• Imposing figure with impressive finishing and heading ability
the story so far
• Has made only one appearance at Copa América
• Can provide scoring threat off the bench
what they’re saying
• “He looks like a really good prospect…He looks a handful.” – Former EPL player Gary Neville
Topps UCL Living Set Card #132 Vinícius Júnior
Player Info
• Led Real Madrid to La Liga and UCL titles this season
• Breathtaking attacker with electrifying pace and flair
• Tied for most valuable player in the world, per Transfrmarkt
the story so far
• Scored two key goals in win against Paraguay
• Suspended for quarterfinal matchup against Uruguay
what they’re saying
• “I think Vini Junior is the best player in the world.” French legend Thierry Henry
