Canadian men eye inclusion in 2024 Copa America with U.S. set to host

Next year’s Copa America will be played in the United States and will include six CONCACAF teams.

South American soccer body CONMEBOL said Friday its 10 national teams will play the tournament out of their region after a deal with the confederation for North and Central America and the Caribbean.

The six guests for the 2024 Copa America will secure their spots according to their performances in the next CONCACAF Nations League.

The agreement also includes placing four of CONMEBOL women’s teams in a CONCACAF tournament, plus the creation of a new club competition.

The United States, Mexico and Canada will co-host the men’s World Cup in 2026.

The move could provide the opportunity for Canada, should it qualify, to play meaningful games against top competition ahead of the event. As hosts, Canada won’t participate in World Cup qualifying.

Ecuador decided not to organize the 2024 Copa America, as expected, due to public security issues.

Argentina is the defending Copa America and World Cup champion.