Brazil will be determined to banish the memories of the 2014 World Cup when they play host to this summer’s Copa America.
The humiliating 7-1 semi-final defeat against Germany on home soil remains embedded in the Selecao’s psyche, although they are clear 11/10 (2.10) favourites with bet365 to enjoy some national catharsis by lifting South America’s biggest prize for the first time in 12 years.
Having recorded 29 victories and just two defeats in 36 matches under Tite, even the absence of Neymar is unlikely to stand in their way of a ninth continental trophy.
As well as being drawn in a group alongside three of South America’s lowest-ranked nations in 25/1 (26.00) Peru, 40/1 (41.00) Ecuador and 50/1 (51.00) Venezuela, Brazil are helped by the unconvincing shape of old rivals Argentina.
Rookie manager Lionel Scaloni is yet to truly convince in a short tenure that has mostly comprised friendly matches against modest opposition.
However, the presence of Sergio Aguero and, of course, Lionel Messi in attack make the beaten finalists in four of the last five editions a potentially lucrative 15/4 (4.75) shot.
The only nation to have lifted this trophy more often than Argentina is Uruguay, whose vastly experienced squad fronted by Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez can be backed at generous 7/1 (8.00) odds to claim an impressive 16th title.
In contrast, Colombia have only won this tournament once, but have enough talent in their ranks to make 9/1 (10.00) look an extremely long price if the likes of James Rodriguez, Radamel Falcao and the in-form Duvan Zapata hit top gear.
Champions of the last two editions, Chile come into the tournament as 12/1 (13.00) outsiders after winning just five out of 13 fixtures since appointing Reinaldo Rueda following the failure to qualify for last year’s World Cup.
Paraguay are even bigger dark horses following a run of just eight wins in 33 matches since reaching the semi-finals in 2015, while Japan and Qatar are available at 50/1 (51.00) and 80/1 (81.00) respectively to become the first invitees crowned champions.
All odds correct at time of publish. Please gamble responsibly.
Brazil to win the Copa America 2019 for a 2pt stake at 11/10 (2.10) with bet365
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