2011 Copa América Tournament Overview and Squad Statistics
The 2011 Copa América was a premier international football competition hosted by Argentina. Running from July 1 to July 24, 2011, the tournament brought together twelve national teams to compete for continental glory. To ensure fair competition, strict registration rules were implemented, requiring each nation to register a squad of 22 players, or 23 if the team opted for three goalkeepers. Only players listed in these official squads were eligible to participate, with shirt numbers assigned from 1 to 23.
Key Facts
- Host Nation: Argentina
- Dates: July 1 – July 24, 2011
- Participants: 12 national teams
- Squad Size: 22 players (23 if including three goalkeepers)
- Unique Entry: Mexico participated using a U-22 squad
Tournament Structure and Groupings
The twelve participating nations were divided into three groups to determine who would advance in the competition. Each team was led by a designated head coach responsible for tactical management and squad selection.
Group A
- Argentina: Coached by Sergio Batista
- Bolivia: Coached by Gustavo Quinteros
- Colombia: Coached by Hernán Darío Gómez
- Costa Rica: Coached by Ricardo La Volpe
Group B
- Brazil: Coached by Mano Menezes
- Ecuador: Coached by Reinaldo Rueda
- Paraguay: Coached by Gerardo Martino
- Venezuela: Coached by César Farías
Group C
- Chile: Coached by Claudio Borghi
- Mexico: Coached by Luis Fernando Tena (entered as a U-22 squad)
- Peru: Coached by Sergio Markarián
- Uruguay: Coached by Óscar Tabárez
Player and Club Statistics
The 2011 tournament showcased a diverse array of talent from various professional leagues and clubs worldwide. The distribution of players highlighted the global nature of the sport, with significant representation from European and South American leagues.
Club and League Representation
Certain clubs provided a higher number of players than others, with Guadalajara and Oriente Petrolero leading the way with seven players each. In terms of national leagues, the Mexican league provided the highest number of participants with 35 players, followed closely by Italy and Spain with 30 players each.
| Country/League | Number of Players |
|---|---|
| Mexico | 35 |
| Italy | 30 |
| Spain | 30 |
| Costa Rica | 20 |
| Bolivia | 18 |
Squad Demographics
The average age of the squads varied significantly across the participating nations. The youngest squads belonged to Costa Rica and Mexico, both averaging 22 years of age. In contrast, Bolivia fielded the most experienced squad with an average age of 28.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the 2011 Copa América held?
The tournament was held in Argentina from July 1 to July 24, 2011.
How many players were allowed per squad?
Teams were required to register 22 players, though they could register 23 if they chose to include three goalkeepers.
Which team sent a youth squad to the tournament?
Mexico participated in the 2011 Copa América with a U-22 squad.
Which league had the most players represented?
The Mexican league had the highest representation with 35 players.
Which teams had the youngest average squad age?
Costa Rica and Mexico had the youngest squads, with an average age of 22.