Copa America Centenario: An underwhelming weekend

Copa America Centenario kicked off this weekend, with a total of six matches completed…too bad someone forgot to tell a few teams to show up.

Peru vs Haiti? Sure, we knew not to expect much out of that match in regards to flare and world class play, but getting zero goals out of Ecuador vs. Brazil is truly a let down.  Enner Valencia was average, and Brazil seemingly refuses to include potent strikers in their 23-man squads for international tournaments.  Don’t get Joker started on Dunga’s squad selection…

Costa Rica vs. Paraguay?  Costa Rica hadn’t put in a lackluster performance like that in quite some time…possibly even pre World Cup 2014.  Paraguay played a solid game, but again, another performance that can’t be considered easy on the eyes…no elite play in the final third.

With USA vs. Colombia, the score line of 2-0 speaks for itself.  USA never truly threatened, and Colombia didn’t even need their best game to take the 3 points…  other teams better beware of the Colombians.

For those that hoped Sunday would be better, I’d call it a wash.  Venezuela vs. Jamaica could’ve been a sneaky good game, but we were robbed of watching a full strength Reggae Boyz squad since our boy Wes Morgan loves to party.  In my opinion, I say let the guy sesh.  Winning an EPL title with Leicester City earns you a bit of wiggle room, and Winfried Schafer played his hand wrong.  Jamaica played with more energy than Venezuela once Morgan took the field, which was after they were already down a man in the first half. 

The Uruguayans and Mexicans at least provided some excitement, but the match still wasn’t quite what it could’ve been.  I mean seriously, a Luis Suarez-less Uruguayan team is never going to be as fun to watch, even with Cavani as a lead striker…Uruguay failed to consistently create opportunities to break through early, and Mexico took advantage in front of essentially a home crowd.  After an own goal, a couple of red cards, and a few late goals, Mexico came away with the 3 points with a 3-1 triumph…pretty cool to see Rafa Marquez bag one, but I can never get myself to cheer for Mexico.

Let’s just hope Chile vs. Argentina can provide us with the flare and class we hope to see.