Copa America drama eclipses World Cup qualifiers
Sao Paulo, June 7
South American World Cup qualifiers involving bitter rivals Colombia and Argentina, and Paraguay hosting Brazil, are being overshadowed by a possible player revolt against taking part in the upcoming Copa America.
The South American tournament is scheduled to be played from June 13 to July 10 in Brazil.
Copa America was originally set to be co-hosted by Colombia and Argentina. Colombia was forced to withdraw following social unrest and Argentina reportedly declined to host the continental tournament because of a worsening of the pandemic.
It will now be hosted by Brazil, even though more than 470,000 Brazilians have died so far from the coronavirus and analysts expect another wave of the virus to hit Brazil by late June.
On the field, Brazil lead the round-robin tournament with 15 points, four ahead of second-placed Argentina. The top-four teams automatically secure a spot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The post-match news conference of Brazil coach Tite in Asuncion is more anticipated than the game itself. After the Selecao’s 2-0 home win against Ecuador, Tite said he and his players would make it clear whether they will participate in the next Copa America in a decision that mixes views on pandemic control and internal politics.
Meanwhile, Argentina’s soccer federation says the team will be present at Copa America as a reflection of “its sporting spirit throughout history,” but did not make clear if the team’s top players, including Lionel Messi, will be at the tournament.
Busquets tests positive
Madrid: Spain’s preparations for the Euro 2020 have taken a hit after captain Sergio Busquets tested positive for the coronavirus and is in danger of missing key games at the tournament.
Meanwhile, Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku scored his 60th international goal to secure a 1-0 win over Croatia in their Euro 2020 warm-up on Sunday. Netherlands beat Georgia 3-0, while England beat Romania 1-0. — Agencies
