Yankees to climb the Altiplano: A Look at USA and Bolivia Before Their Copa América Clash

The upcoming Copa América 2024 group stage encounter between the United States and Bolivia promises a contrasting clash of styles. The USA, a nation on the rise in CONCACAF, will face a Bolivian side steeped in history but struggling to recapture past glories.

USA: Building Towards Greatness

• Achievements: The USA may not boast a trophy cabinet overflowing with major international titles, but they have steadily improved in recent years. They finished runners-up in the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup and reached the knockout stages of the 2022 World Cup. Their greatest achievement is winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup seven times.
• Past Stars: While the USA's footballing history is relatively young compared to some South American nations, they have produced iconic figures. Landon Donovan is a household name for his goalscoring prowess and leadership, while Clint Dempsey remains the nation's all-time leading scorer.
• Current Stars: Christian Pulisic (Milan) is the face of American soccer, known for his pace, dribbling skills, and creativity. Weston McKennie (Juventus) brings energy and box-to-box presence in midfield, while young talents like Brenden Aaronson (Leeds) are exciting prospects for the future.

Bolivia: The Sleeping Giant of the Andes

• Achievements: Bolivia boasts a rich footballing history, having won the Copa América once in 1963 (when it was known as the South American Championship). They've also reached the final four on four other occasions. However, recent years have been challenging, with Bolivia failing to qualify for the last two World Cups.
• Past Stars: Marco Etcheverry is a legend in Bolivian football, remembered for his playmaking skills and creativity. Players like Erwin Sánchez and Julio César Baldivieso also left their mark on the national team.
• Current Stars:
  • Marcelo Moreno (Cerezo Osaka) remains Bolivia's talismanic striker, known for his finishing ability and aerial presence. More recent talents like:
  • Cesar Menacho (Club Blooming) - A right-winger known for his pace and crossing ability.
  • Jaume Cuellar (Barcelona B) - A right-winger with dribbling skills and an eye for goal.
  • Carmelo Algaranaz (Bolivar) - A young and promising center-forward with good movement and finishing.

A Match Steeped in History

The USA and Bolivia have met 18 times throughout history, with the USA holding a slight advantage (winning 8, Bolivia winning 5, and 5 draws). Their only encounter in the Copa América was a 1-0 victory for Bolivia in 1995. This upcoming match promises to be an intriguing encounter. The USA will be looking to continue their upward trajectory, while Bolivia will be aiming to cause an upset and remind everyone of their past glories.