The unfortunate live broadcast of Enzo Fernandez singing the controversial song against France could have harsh consequences. Beyond the widespread repudiation of fans, players and even his own teammates, the Argentine midfielder could face a sporting sanction, according to English media reports.

Fernandez has already apologized publicly, assuring that “there is absolutely no excuse” for his words and that “that video, that moment, those words, do not reflect my beliefs or my character.”

Enzo Fernandez could miss several games

The Argentine midfielder Fernandez could be suspended for up to 12 games. As explained by sports lawyer Udo Onwere in The Sun, the final decision would be in the hands of the English Association (FA), which is already investigating the case together with FIFA and Conmebol. The FA regulations provide for sanctions of “between six and twelve games for almost all acts of discrimination by individual participants”.

If the maximum sanction is confirmed, Fernandez would miss the start of the season with Chelsea and possibly some matches of the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina will face Chile and Colombia in September.

However, the sanction could also be extended to the Argentine Football Association (AFA), since there is a similar precedent with the Croatia National Team. In addition, FIFA could take disciplinary action at the international level. The investigation is still ongoing and the final decision on Enzo Fernandez’s future is expected to be known in the coming weeks.

Jackie Martinez claims she was caught up in the chaos that ensued at the gates of Hard Rock Stadium before the final match, where thousands of fans were unable to enter due to hundreds of people entering without tickets.

The match was delayed for more than an hour and 20 minutes and finally Argentina beat Colombia 1-0 to become continental champions. Martinez says she and her family were never able to enter and did not see the game.

What is the reason for the lawsuit against Conmebol?

Martinez claims to have paid $4,395 for four tickets for herself, her spouse, her parents and her 8-month-old son. “I really wanted to see a final. I’ve never seen a final in my entire life. My parents didn’t either. It would have been the first time. We bought the tickets when they came out. We didn’t care who was in the final, but when we found out it was Colombia, I’m from Uruguay, but my spouse is from Colombia and it was a dream come true for him. I was very excited,” she told CBS News Miami.

“When we arrived, it was full,” she added. Martinez says he had tickets in row 14 of section 106. “We couldn’t get in. When 7:30 p.m. came, everyone started panicking because the game was supposed to start at 8 p.m.,” she explained.

Hard Rock Stadium also involved in the legal dispute

“I feel devastated. I feel sad. It was like a dream come true for us to see a final and for us football is something important. It’s like someone buying tickets to the Super Bowl and not getting in. It was very sad for everyone. I blame the Hard Rock Stadium and Conmebol because they should have been prepared. They should have scanned the entrances to make sure people were getting into the parking lot and they didn’t,” Martinez said.

She and her attorney, Irwin Ast, have filed a lawsuit against Hard Rock Stadium and the Conmebol, the organizers of the event, for more than $50,000 in damages.

More lawsuits could be filed

Ast claims that he has heard from at least 30 other people who were also tricked after paying for tickets and expects more lawsuits to be filed. “It was a day they were supposed to remember forever and now, it’s a day they’ll remember forever for all the wrong reasons. They have to correct it. Too many people were injured that day by not being able to get in and spent thousands of dollars on tickets. This has hurt my customers and damaged the reputation of the area,” Ast said.

Conmebol has said it was bound by decisions made by the stadium. A spokesperson for the stadium said they had worked with law enforcement. It is expected to know if more lawsuits will be added to the one filed at this time.

A Ball on the Head

For a month, soccer took over sports in the United States. Or at least, it seems that way seeing these two peculiar fans, who only have a ball on their heads. Obviously, they’re supporting the home team colors.

Argentinian Fan

In the quest to combat the prevailing humidity in Miami, any method is valid. Like this Argentinian fan, who used a fan with the colors of her flag. And she celebrated one of the many victories of the Albiceleste.

Inca God

Surely, this supporter and the rest of the Peruvian fans should have summoned the gods and ancestors of their country to ensure their team performed better in USA2024. Peru left without even scoring a goal…

Happy Tico

The situation was different for Costa Rica. Just look at this fan kissing his team’s crest after an outstanding performance with a team full of young players, even achieving a historic draw against Brazil.

River Plate Sun

The Uruguayan sun is shining brighter than ever in this Copa América. A renewed team, focused, and playing at a high level, bringing hope to all. Including her, who enjoys the colors (and the sun) of her flag.

Always Present

If there is one character that represents the Mexican crowd, it’s undoubtedly the luchador. His image transcends stadiums, cities, and borders but is always there to support his team. Of course, in this case, he probably ended up somewhat disappointed.

Happy with La Tri

How else could these Ecuadorian fans be but showing their beautiful smiles? The reason? Despite certain difficulties, their team rose to the occasion and almost caused a major upset against Argentina.

An Intruder

She celebrates, although it’s not entirely clear if she’s an Argentinian fan, joined the others, or chose to support the Albiceleste in their Copa journey. Regardless, there is no doubt she enjoyed her presence in the stadium.

Flag Man

The national flag is carried in the blood. The national flag is carried in the heart… And in this case, more literally, this Colombian fan practically turned it into part of his body to show his immense love for his team.

A Llama in the Stands

This animal, so characteristic of northern Argentina, was represented in the stands of the different stadiums where the Albiceleste played. Yes, a Llama appeared in the stands. Or at least, on the hat of this particular fan.

Enjoyed Anyway

Bolivia’s run in the Copa América was quite disappointing from a football perspective, showing the lowest level among the participating teams. Despite that, she didn’t care much and enjoyed cheering her team up close.

American Viking

It’s not the Euros, we’re in our continent. More precisely in Los Angeles, California, where this Viking was seen during the Brazil-Colombia match. Judging by the colors of his helmet, it’s clear he’s supporting the verdeamarelha.

Suit and Tie

Maybe we’re in the presence of a descendant of Uncle Sam. Although, thinking about it, perhaps it’s simply a die-hard fan of the United States national team, who decided to dress in this nice suit to grace the crowd.

Floating Heads

It’s clear that Messi and Di María are the main references of the powerful Argentinian team. What no one knew is that they could be in two places at the same time. Thanks to these fans, the idols also appeared in the stands.

Faces and Masks

The extreme California heat that summer afternoon didn’t matter much to these Ecuadorian fans who gave their all to cheer their team against Venezuela. Regardless of the team’s performance, for their colorfulness, they deserve the victory.

Pure Celebration

The Uruguayan team enjoys their present, their performance, their goals, and their repeated victories. And their fans take the opportunity to enjoy all of that. Just ask her, who appears euphoric in the stands.

Favorite Dish

Every fan has their favorite player. The one they feel a special affection for. Well, in this case, it seems this Venezuelan is a fanatic… but of arepas. To the point of wearing them as a hat.

Aztec Tribe

The culture and tradition of each people, of each country, often appear represented in major events. In the mix of races, there’s always room for the indigenous peoples. Such is the case of the Mayas and Aztecs, shown by this Mexican.

Coffee Cat

Despite its wild and predatory characteristics, this cat gives a completely opposite sensation. Cheerful and fun, it joins the rest to add more color to the support that the Colombian team always shows in the stands.

Fan and Idol

Regardless of the Chilean team’s performance in this Copa América, this fan cheered La Roja all the time, mainly his idol and reference: Alexis Sánchez, who accompanies him on his hat to every match.

Garota of Las Vegas

The most logical thing would be to find her on one of the many beautiful Carioca beaches. But she decided to travel many miles to be present and show her support for this Brazil seeking to return to its best level.

Spider-Man

The superheroes didn’t want to miss the chance to be present at this Copa América USA 2024 either. In this case, Spider-Man made an appearance wearing the colors of the Argentinian team. Or could it be Julián The Spider Álvarez?

Big Mexican

As simple as it is peculiar, this man is the perfect symbol of the Mexican fan. The hat, the mustache, the team jersey… everything needed to stand out and quickly reveal which team he supports.

The Pibe Valderrama?

One of the greatest idols in the entire history of Colombian soccer is Carlos El Pibe Valderrama. And although his time on the pitch was several years ago, fans still hold him dear and he accompanies them in the stands.

Warrior Eagle

Another characteristic symbol of the Americans that was also present in the stadiums. Although the team’s performance was not as expected, the Eagle contributed its support, cheering with the national colors.

Painted Flag

All kinds of craziness and styles to show their love for their flag and team. Like this Uruguayan supporter, who decided to paint his colors on his head. It’s clear he managed to grab attention.

Divided Heart

This Canadian fan faced a complicated situation but solved it easily. Through that flag, he shows his unconditional support for his national team, but also his love for a global idol like Lionel Messi.

A Bounty Hunter

In a massive and colorful event like the Copa América, all kinds of protagonists tend to appear. Even a bounty hunter was loose in the stands! Or at least, this version of Boba Fett, the character from the Star Wars franchise.

Colombian Hope

A dreamy day. Ideal weather, a large crowd, a very good team on the field… some of the necessary reasons to explain the happiness of this Colombian fan who is living the participation of her team in the Copa América to the fullest.

Flag-Waving in NY

One of the most impactful moments of this Copa América took place in the heart of New York. Argentinian fans gathered in the iconic Times Square to rally support for their team and their idol, Lio Messi, who celebrated his birthday that day.

Lionel Messi played a crucial role for Argentina in their victory over Canada, contributing with assists and scoring opportunities. Christian Pulisic earned the Man of the Match award for his stellar performance against Bolivia. James Rodríguez showcased a vintage performance, helping Colombia secure a 2-1 win over Paraguay. Other players also made significant contributions to earn their spots in the Team of the Week.

Players from Mexico, Uruguay, and Panama have also been selected for the 2024 Copa America Team of the Week after Matchday 1.

Team of the Week: Copa America

In goal, Costa Rican goalkeeper Patrick Sequeira; in defense, Michael Amir Murillo (Panama), Cesar Montes (Mexico), Cristian Romero (Argentina), and Matías Viña (Uruguay).

In midfield, Jefferson Lerma (Colombia), Luis Romo (Mexico), and James Rodríguez (Colombia), all pivotal for their teams.

Upfront, a formidable attacking trio of Lionel Messi (Argentina), Christian Pulisic (United States), and Maximiliano Araújo (Uruguay) that any coach would covet.

Since taking over Canada after a horrific spell at Leeds United, Jesse Marsch has a 0-1-1 record, which includes a 0-0 draw with France. Argentina, on the other hand, enters the Copa America on a huge wave, as current Copa champions and winners of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The game is sold out at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and is slated to set the tone for what will be the Copa America in the United States. When it comes to history, Canada and Argentina have only played one match, in 2010.

Canada’s Only Game Against Argentina

Canada faced Argentina only once back in 2010, when Diego Maradona was the coach of the Argentine national team. The match took place in May 2010.

On that day, Argentina defeated Canada 5-0 with goals by Maxi Rodríguez (twice), Di Maria, Carlos Tevez, and Agüero. The match was played in Buenos Aires at the famed River Plate Estadio Monumental.

Argentina fielded the following line up: Sergio Romero; Jonas Gutierrez, Nico Burdisso, Nicolás Otamendi, Gabriel Heinze; Maxi Rodríguez, Javier Mascherano, Ángel Di María, Javier Pastore; Carlos Tévez, Gonzalo Higuaín.

Almada has been a shining light in an otherwise dismal campaign for Atlanta United, who are stuck in mid-table status with no clear direction. He has been highlight-reel material for MLS and his team, tallying 24 goals and 24 assists in 84 MLS games.

So why is this creative player not on Argentina’s squad for the Copa America? The answer lies in the plans that the Argentine national team has set up for him.

Thiago Almada to the Olympics

Thiago Almada has been one of the top players for the Argentine U-23 team, and he will be heading to the Summer Olympics with Argentina as one of the team’s main players. That is one of the reasons why Scaloni preferred not to include Almada in the Copa America squad.

Many national team players have permission from their clubs to participate in only one tournament this summer, and since Thiago Almada is a major star of his team, Atlanta United most likely would not have allowed him to leave for two tournaments.

So while Thiago Almada will not be at the Copa America, he will be competing in the Olympics for the U-23 Argentine side.

Messi’s early Copa America campaigns were characterized by close calls and frustrations. Despite his individual brilliance, Argentina fell short in several tournaments, including the 2007 final where they lost to Brazil 3-0. Messi’s talent was evident, but success on the international stage remained elusive. Argentina with Messi also were defeated in 2015 and 2016.

The turning point came in 2021, when Messi led Argentina to victory in the Copa America held in Brazil. Throughout the tournament, Messi displayed exceptional skill and leadership, guiding his team through tough matches to reach the final against Brazil.

Lionel Messi’s only Copa America title

In a tense and closely contested match against Brazil, Angel Di Maria’s goal secured a 1-0 victory for Argentina, marking Messi’s first major international trophy with his country. The win was particularly poignant for Messi, who had faced criticism and pressure over the years to deliver silverware for Argentina.

Now in 2024 in the United States, Messi will look to win his second Copa America with Argentina and his fourth international title with the national team in the last 5 years.

This event marks a fresh start for nations like Chile and Peru, now led by Ricardo Gareca and Jorge Fossati respectively, and it is also a significant evaluation of the work of others such as Gregg Berhalter.

Below is a list of the salaries of some of the top coaches in this summer’s Copa America; all salaries are yearly.

Highest Paid Coaches in South America and Concacaf

Marcelo Bielsa of Uruguay leads the pack at $4 million yearly. The Argentine manager is expected to win silverware with La Celeste, especially following major victories against Brazil and Argentina in World Cup qualifying.

Brazil’s squad coach, Dorival Junior earns around $4 million. The journeyman coach is considered by many to be a disappointing choice to lead the five-time World Champions.

Ricardo Gareca, now with Chile, earns approximately $3.7 million, followed by Paraguay’s Daniel Garnero and Venezuela’s Fernando Batista, both at $3 million.

World Cup winner and Argentine manager Lionel Scaloni earns just $2.6 million, while USMNT manager Gregg Berhalter earns $2.2 million.

The USMNT has reached the semi finals of the tournament twice, once in 1995 and again in 2016. Argentina and Uruguay are the teams that have the most history in international football’s oldest national team competition.

Here are 25 stats to hold you over before the start of the 2024 Copa America!

Most Titles Won

Argentina and Uruguay hold the record for the most Copa America titles won, with 15 each.

Most Goals Scored

Norberto Méndez of Argentina holds the record for the most goals scored in a single Copa America tournament, with 17 goals in the 1945 edition.

Most Appearances

Uruguay has the most appearances in Copa America tournaments, having participated in all editions since the tournament’s inception in 1916.

Youngest Goal Scorer

Agustín Cejas of Argentina is the youngest goal scorer in Copa America history, scoring at the age of 17 years and 5 months in 1959.

Longest Unbeaten Streak

Brazil holds the record for the longest unbeaten streak in Copa America history, going 12 consecutive matches without a loss between 2004 and 2007.

Biggest Win

Argentina holds the record for the biggest win in Copa America history, defeating Ecuador 12-0 in 1942.

Most Goals in a Match

Argentina vs. Ecuador in 1942 holds the record for the most goals scored in a single match in Copa America history, with Argentina winning 12-0.

Most Consecutive Titles

Argentina won the Copa America three times in a row between 1945 and 1947, a record for consecutive titles.

Oldest Player

Uruguay’s Roque Máspoli is the oldest player to have played in a Copa America match, aged 42 years and 9 months in 1967.

Longest Penalty Shootout

The penalty shootout between Uruguay and Brazil in the 1983 Copa America quarterfinals went to 21 rounds, making it the longest penalty shootout in Copa America history.

Fastest Goal

Julio Morales of Mexico scored the fastest goal in Copa America history, finding the net just 35 seconds into a match against Chile in 1945.

Most Goals in a Tournament

Argentina scored the most goals by a team in a single Copa America tournament, netting 31 goals in the 1959 edition.

Brazil has won how many Copa Americas?

Brazil ranks third in Copa America winners with 9 titles in the years, 1919, 1922, 1949, 1989, 1997, 1999, 2004, 2007, 2019.

Most Consecutive Clean Sheets

Brazil holds the record for the most consecutive clean sheets in Copa America history, with six clean sheets in a row in the 1989 tournament.

Most Expensive Transfer of a Copa America Participant

Neymar’s transfer from Santos to Barcelona for €88.2 million in 2013 was the most expensive transfer involving a player participating in the Copa America at that time.

Most Red Cards in a Single Match

The match between Chile and Uruguay in the 1987 Copa America saw the most red cards issued in a single match, with five players sent off.

Most Penalties Saved in a Tournament

Paraguay’s José Luis Chilavert holds the record for the most penalties saved in a single Copa America tournament, saving four penalties in the 1999 edition.

Most Own Goals in a Tournament

Colombia scored the most own goals by a team in a single Copa America tournament, with three own goals in the 2001 edition.

Most Matches Played

Lionel Messi holds the record for the most matches played by a player in Copa America history, with 38 appearances as of 2021.

Most Matches Won

Lionel Messi holds the record for the most matches won by a player in Copa America history, with 24 victories as of 2021.

Most Assists in a Tournament

Adriano of Brazil holds the record for the most assists in a single Copa America tournament, providing eight assists in the 2004 edition.

Highest Attendance

The highest attendance recorded for a Copa America match was in the 1949 final between Brazil and Paraguay, with an estimated 200,000 spectators.

Most Goals in Extra Time

Argentina and Uruguay hold the record for the most goals scored in extra time in a Copa America final, with four goals in the 1937 final.

Most Goals in a Final

Argentina’s 4-1 victory over Brazil in the 1937 final holds the record for the most goals scored in a single Copa America final.

Most Hat-Tricks in a Tournament

Gabriel Batistuta of Argentina holds the record for the most hat-tricks scored by a player in a single Copa America tournament, with two hat-tricks in the 1991 edition.

[Watch Concacaf Nations League online for FREE in the US on Fubo]

However, the action extends beyond friendly matches; official competitions are also a part of this bustling football period. Among these is the Concacaf Nations League, which is advancing into its critical stages. This tournament, pivotal in the calendar of the participating nations, adds a competitive edge to the international break, distinguishing it from regular friendly Matchday.

The FIFA window will feature pivotal matches, including the semifinals and final of the Concacaf Nations League. Additionally, playoffs for teams eliminated in the quarterfinals are on the schedule, where victors earn the chance to qualify for the next Copa America in 2024 alongside the four semifinalists. These games represent not just an opportunity for glory but also a crucial step towards securing a spot in one of international football’s prestigious tournaments.

Semifinals and final of the Concacaf Nations League

One of the key outcomes yet to be determined is the identity of the new champions of the Concacaf Nations League. The title will be contested by the tournament’s four best teams, who are set to compete for the championship. All times correspond to Eastern Time.

Thursday, March 21, 2024 (semifinal games)

United States v Jamaica 7:00 PM
Panama v Mexico 10:15 PM

Sunday, March 24, 2024 (third place game, final game)

TBD v TBD 6:00 PM (Third place)
TBD v TBD 9:15 PM (Final)

Playoff to qualify for the Copa America

In addition to the four teams that have already qualified for the Copa America and are contenders for the Concacaf Nations League title, two more teams will emerge from these playoff matches, making these encounters particularly crucial.

These matches will determine the teams that will join the already qualified sides in the Copa America. All times correspond to Eastern Time.

Saturday, March 23, 2024
Canada v Trinidad and Tobago 4:00 PM
Costa Rica v Honduras 7:15 PM

TV for the final games of the Concacaf Nations League

Apart from the final and the third-place match, whose competitors have yet to be determined, the broadcast channels for the other matches remain consistent. The only exception is the match between Costa Rica and Honduras; in the United States, this can be viewed on Fubo (free trial), while in Canada, it’s available on Fubo Canada, excluding the Costa Rica vs. Honduras game.

For audiences worldwide, these amazing games which will define the champions of the tournament and the last ones qualified for the Copa America can be accessed through YouTube, the Concacaf Official App, and Facebook Live. Additionally, viewers in the United States have the option to watch all these matches on Paramount+.

“No team can have more ambition than us. Never. Because if we are wearing the national jersey, we have to represent it as it deserves. I believe that is the first thing. Today, we were surpassed in that.”

Following the result, players such as Raul Jimenez from Fulham, Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord, Hirving Lozano from PSV and Edson Alvarez from West Ham have been heavily criticized by the fans. They are not reaching the same level with the national team as they consistently do with their clubs in Europe. That’s why Lozano blamed the players for the defeat.

“I think we all failed as I mentioned in the locker room. They failed (the players). We (the coaching staff), possibly, didn’t make it clear how we could harm this team. Then it’s a matter of personal conviction, knowing that these scenarios are what they are. They are complicated. Many times in other environments or leagues, it’s easier to play, but here, you have to adapt.”

Concacaf Nations League: What happens if Mexico lose to Honduras?

After the 2-0 defeat in Tegucigalpa, Mexico will host Honduras in the second leg of the quarterfinals next Tuesday at Estadio Azteca. The winner of the series will advance to the semifinals of the 2023-2024 Concacaf Nations League and secure a spot in the 2024 Copa America.

If Mexico is eliminated by Honduras in the Concacaf Nations League, they will have to go to the playoffs to fight for one of the last two remaining spots in the 2024 Copa America.

Their potential opponents in those playoffs will be the losers from the remaining series of the quarterfinals: United States vs Trinidad and Tobago, Panama vs Costa Rica, and Jamaica vs Canada.

Is Mexico eliminated from the 2024 Copa America?

No. If Mexico lose to Honduras in the quarterfinals, they would indeed be eliminated from the 2023-2024 Concacaf Nations League, but they would have a final chance to reach the 2024 Copa America through the playoffs next March.

What teams will play in the 2024 Copa America?

The 2024 Copa America will have 16 participants. The 10 teams which are part of CONMEBOL and the Top 6 teams from CONCACAF that will qualify through the 2023-2024 Concacaf Nations League (the 4 semifinalists and 2 teams from the playoffs).