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Brazil
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Fred: Fred has been a surprising but vital addition to the Brazilian squad for Copa America 2021. After another good season at Manchester United, Fred earned a call-up to the 25-man tournament squad despite his injury near the end of the club season. He’s played well for Brazil in their group games, helping to solidify a strong defensive midfield duo with Real Madrid’s Casemiro. He started in victories over Venezuela, Peru, and Colombia before resting in their final match against Ecuador. He looks set to play a big role going into the knockout stage, where Brazil hope to ride an impressive unbeaten run to the final. They face Chile in the Quarterfinals on Friday.
Uruguay
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Edinson Cavani: Manchester United’s latest cult hero got off to a bit of a slow start with Uruguay at Copa America 2021, but came alive to close out the group stage strong. He scored a goal in each of Uruguay’s final two group matches, securing a vital 6 points to qualify for the knockout round. He and Luis Suarez continue to lead the line after nearly a decade of doing so, and though the pair are nearing the twilights of their respective careers they continue to produce at a high level for club and country. Uruguay come up against Colombia at the weekend in the Quarterfinals.