Unveiling the Thrilling Copa América 2004: A Comprehensive Guide to the Fixtures and Groups

Introduction

The Copa América, the oldest international soccer tournament in the world, captivated millions of fans across South America and beyond in 2004. Over the course of three thrilling weeks, top teams from across the continent battled for glory. This article provides an in-depth guide to the fixtures, groups, and key highlights of the Copa América 2004, offering soccer enthusiasts a comprehensive overview of the tournament.

Format and Schedule

The Copa América 2004 adopted a traditional group stage format, followed by a knockout stage for the top teams. The tournament kicked off on July 6 and concluded with the final on July 25.

Group Stage

Group A

• Argentina
• Ecuador
• Mexico
• Uruguay

Group B

• Brazil
• Chile
• Costa Rica
• Paraguay

Group C

• Colombia
• Peru
• Venezuela
• Bolivia

Knockout Stage

• Quarterfinals (July 17-18)
• Semifinals (July 20-21)
• Third-place match (July 24)
• Final (July 25)

Key Fixtures

Final

Brazil vs. Argentina (July 25)

The final match of the Copa América 2004 was a tense and dramatic affair, with Brazil ultimately defeating Argentina on penalties. The match showcased the individual brilliance of stars such as Ronaldinho, Adriano, and Juan Román Riquelme.

Top Performers

Several players left an indelible mark on the Copa América 2004:

• Ronaldo (Brazil): The tournament's Golden Boot winner with 7 goals, demonstrating his uncanny ability to find the back of the net.
• Juan Carlos Cacho (Uruguay): The tournament's Golden Glove winner, making crucial saves throughout the tournament.
• Adriano (Brazil): A rising star, showcasing his power and pace, forming a formidable attacking partnership with Ronaldo.
• Carlos Tévez (Argentina): A young and promising player, bursting onto the international scene with impressive performances.

Legacy and Impact

The Copa América 2004 left a lasting legacy in the world of soccer:

Conclusion

The Copa América 2004 was a mesmerizing tournament that showcased the best of South American soccer. From the thrilling group stage fixtures to the dramatic knockout rounds, the tournament provided unforgettable moments for fans and players alike. The legacy of the Copa América 2004 lives on, inspiring future generations of soccer enthusiasts.