Published By: Akashdeep

Copa America 2024: From Peru to Paraguay, A Look at the Oldest Squads in the Tournament

Let’s take a look at the most experienced teams in Copa America! 

The 2024 Copa America promises a thrilling summer filled with captivating matchups, nail-biting finishes, unforgettable moments, inspiring stories, stunning goals, and breathtaking saves. The finest national teams, featuring their top players, will vie for the prestigious trophy. Here are the top five oldest squads competing in the Copa America 2024:

Paraguay (Average Age: 28 years, 0 months)

A team in the Copa America that exemplifies defensive solidity and swift counterattacks is Paraguay. They are determined to have a successful tournament with their dedicated squad of players. Paraguay employs a low-block defensive strategy to prevent opponents from easily breaking through, then capitalises on counter attacks after regaining possession. This approach heavily relies on their star player, Miguel Almiron, who is the team's primary creator and goal scorer. Almiron's individual performances could significantly influence Paraguay's success in this Copa America.

Colombia (Average Age: 28 years, 2 months)

Colombia is the dark horse to watch in the 2024 Copa America. Boasting a 22-match unbeaten streak, this squad features world-class talents like Liverpool winger Luis Diaz, who had a stellar season for both club and country, and the ever-magical James Rodriguez, known for his exceptional performances on the grandest stages. Alongside these stars, the team benefits from talented young players, a strong team spirit, and tactical versatility under coach Reinaldo Rueda. These elements have made Colombia one of the toughest teams to face in this Copa America.

Argentina (Average Age: 28 years, 5 months)

Defending champions Argentina is poised to retain their crown in the 2024 Copa America. Despite having one of the oldest squads in the tournament, La Albiceleste appear to be the most balanced team on paper, making them the frontrunners once again to claim the trophy this summer. Under Lionel Scaloni, Argentina has established itself as the best team in the world in both form and performance. The 2022 World Cup winners, led by their experienced core of captain Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Nicolas Otamendi, alongside rising talents Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister, aim to dominate their opponents in true champion fashion throughout the group stage.

Chile (Average Age: 28 years, 8 months)

Ricardo Gareca's Chile is a team in transition heading into the 2024 Copa America. Veteran players like Claudio Bravo and Alexis Sánchez, key figures of Chile’s golden generation, will aim to guide the team through this new era of uncertainty. With a foundation built on strong defence, the 2015 and 2016 Copa America champions will look to capitalise on counter-attacks, utilising the skills of Eduardo Vargas and Marcelino Nunez, who are particularly dangerous on the break. The spotlight will be on talisman Ben Brereton Diaz, who will strive to overcome a disappointing club season and deliver standout performances for his country this summer.

Peru (Average Age: 29 years, 1 month)

Peru is set to compete in the 2024 Copa America with a curious mix of optimism and uncertainty. As the tournament's oldest squad, they rely heavily on experienced players like goalkeeper Pedro Gallese and creative winger André Carrillo, who have been key to their success in recent Copa Americas. The 2019 finalists are recognised for their organised and disciplined defence, utilising counter-attacking transitions to score most of their goals. The addition of Cagliari striker Gianluca Lapadula provides a reliable scoring threat up front. After disappointing performances in the World Cup qualifiers, Peru hopes for a resurgence as they navigate a challenging group stage.

Having older teams is inherently an advantage because of the depth of their experience. The teams on this list all have a chance of winning the tournament due to their age!