By Braden Chalker
While forwards and midfielders steal all the praise, defenders are just as important to teams hoping to lift Copa America 2024.
Defense wins championships, or so they say. Teams like Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay have some of the best defenders in world soccer in their squads for Copa America. Other teams may have quality defenders here and there, but they don't exactly stack up with the South American nations' defenders.
Here are the top five defenders at Copa America 2024.
Five best defenders playing in Copa America 2024
Honorable mentions:
- Gabriel Magalhaes (Brazil)
- Lisandro Martinez (Argentina)
- Piero Hincapie (Ecuador)
- Jose Gimenez (Uruguay)
5. Alphonso Davies (Canada)
Although Alphonso Davies can sometimes feature as a winger depending on the competition and the opponent, the Bayern Munich figure typically lines up at left-back.
With his exceptional quality on the ball and electric pace, very few players manage to get by the former Vancouver Whitecaps player.
4. Ronald Araujo (Uruguay)
Even after coming off an inconsistent season with Barcelona in La Liga, Ronald Araujo still remains one of the best defenders in this summer's Copa America.
The 25-year-old will be vital to Uruguay's chances at lifting the Copa America once more alongside Jose Gimenez in the heart of defense.
3. Cristian Romero (Argentina)
When looking at Argentina's defenders, none come close to center-back Cristian 'Cuti' Romero's level.
Not only does he seem to time his challenges perfectly, but he is truly one of the best defenders with the ball at his feet -- something that's become more and more important in the new age of soccer.
2. Eder Militao (Brazil)
Brazil wouldn't be one of the favorites to lift Copa America this summer without at least one solid defender.
That's where Eder Militao comes in, and although he's had difficulty staying fit for Real Madrid, when he's fit and available -- there aren't many players better than him.
1. Marquinhos (Brazil)
Marquinhos is without a doubt the best defender in Copa America 2024 as he looks to guide Brazil back to success after a disappointing 2022 World Cup campaign.
The PSG figure will also look to right his wrongs after his missed penalty attempt vs Croatia in Qatar should a match be decided by another shootout.
This article was originally published on 90min.com as 5 best defenders playing in Copa America 2024 - ranked.
