Barcelona star included in Copa America team of the tournament
- Barcelona winger Raphinha was named to the Copa America 2024 Team of the Tournament
- The award should boost the Brazilian’s confidence as he aims to make a statement this season
By Rohan Borges
Following an impressive individual effort at the 2024 Copa America, Brazilian winger Raphinha has been named in the Team of the Tournament
❗️Official: Raphinha has been included in the Copa America Team of the Tournament. pic.twitter.com/amcR4CgT8f
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) August 1, 2024
While Brazil came up short in the end, losing 4-2 on penalties in the Quarterfinal vs. Uruguay, Raphinha displayed flashes of individual greatness. He was a constant source of energy on the right flank, driving at defenders in open space and delivering some threatening balls into the box.
His highlight of the tournament came in Brazil’s final match of group play, when he opened the score against Columbia with a beautifully struck free kick from nearly 35 yards out. Unfortunately, Brazil would concede the equalizer in stoppage time of the first half, ultimately escaping with only a point.
This recent accolade should encourage Raphinha as he seeks redemption after an underwhelming 2023/24 campaign. The winger is determined to fight for his minutes, recognizing that 17-year-old Lamine Yamal has firmly seized the starting job on the right wing.
Still, Raphinha feels that he can make a strong contribution to the squad, and new manager Hansi Flick would love nothing more than to supervise his return to peak form.