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Matches to watch during Copa America group stage

USMNT Colombia 92

The Copa America Centenario is a unique tournament in world soccer, and this summer’s competition presents plenty of high-profile matchups.

Traditional powers Argentina, Brazil and reigning champions Chile will all be in action, as well as hosts United States, who look to advance out of Group A with three difficult opponents.

Here are five must-watch matches in the Copa America group stage:

ARGENTINA vs. CHILE (JUNE 6, 10 p.m., Fox Sports 1)

The two Group D favorites won’t have to wait long to get a shot at one another, meeting in their first of three group stage fixtures.

Despite several key injuries, including Lucas Biglia and Ezequiel Lavezzi, Argentina will be out for revenge after their heartbreaking defeat in last summer’s Copa America final against La Roja.

For the Chileans, the team brings back many of their stars that helped guide them to the title, including Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez and Bayern Munich midfielder Arturo Vidal.

UNITED STATES vs. COSTA RICA (JUNE 7, 8 p.m., Fox Sports 1)

While it’s easy to argue that Colombia will be the biggest challenge for the U.S. in group play, the team’s history with Costa Rica makes this matchup all the more intriguing.

If the U.S. can manage a point, or pull out three points against the Colombians, then a victory against Los Ticos could see the host nation through to the quarterfinals.

That may not be an easy task though, with Costa Rica bursting with talent. Joel Campbell, Christian Bolanos and captain Bryan Ruiz are the key to the side’s attack, However, the absence of world-class goalkeeper Keylor Navas could prove costly.

MEXICO vs. URUGUAY (JUNE 5, 8 p.m., Fox Sports 1)

Even without Luis Suarez for the group stage, Uruguay still presents itself as one of the top sides in the tournament. They’ll get everything they can handle from Mexico, though.

Juan Carlos Osorio has selected as strong a squad as possible, and it seems like El Tri will be gunning for the title. Led by Bayer Leverkusen striker Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez and Andres Guardado, Mexico is poised for a run in the tournament.

While Uruguay has been known for their attack over recent years, the team’s backline will be key with Diego Godin and Maxi Pereira leading the way.

BRAZIL vs. ECUADOR (JUNE 4, 10 p.m., Fox Sports 1)

A heavily-undermanned Brazil will face a tough task at Copa America, without stars like Neymar, David Luiz and Douglas Costa.

With the sides meeting in the first of three Group B games, whichever side comes out in front, if there is any separation, will certainly be in the driver’s seat.

Ecuador hasn’t advanced out of the group stage in their six previous trips to Copa America, but this team is different from those in the past. Los Amarillos are currently second in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, and have a good mix of youth and experience within their squad.

COLOMBIA vs. COSTA RICA (JUNE 11, 9 p.m., Fox Sports 2)

This matchup could very well determine which nation tops Group A, making a win for either side critical.

After being ousted in the quarterfinals at the two most recent Copa America tournaments, Colombia will be seeking an extended stay in the U.S. There’s no shortage of talent from Los Cafeteros, boasting talents James Rodriguez, Juan Cuadrado and Carlos Bacca in the team’s attack.

Costa Rica has only advanced out the group phase once in their four previous Copa America trips. While Group A will certainly be difficult, Los Ticos have an excellent opportunity to qualify for the last eight.

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