The best Copa America moments of the group stages

Sport360 staff 17:20 15/06/2016

The Copa America has had its ups and downs so far. There have been upsets, controversy and a few jaw-dropping goals.

As the tournament moves into the quarter-finals, we take a look back at some of standout moments from the group stages.

BRAZIL UNDONE BY PERU ‘HAND OF GOD’ GOAL

Following their 7-1 demolition of Haiti, expectations had soared for Dunga’s team, only for them to be crushed by a controversial goal from Peru forward Raúl Ruidíaz which led to Brazil’s elimination.

URUGUAY SENT PACKING

Despite their last game of the tournament being their most convincing, the two defeats prior to that meant Uruguay were leaving the competition earlier than they would have liked. The second game which saw them lose to in-form Venezuela all but confirmed their fate in the tournament.

LUIS SUAREZ LEFT FUMING

The Barcelona and Uruguay striker didn’t make the match day squad due to a hamstring injury, but was as animated as ever in the dugout after seeing his team suffer defeat to Venezuela.

SUPER-SUB MESSI SCORES A SUBLIME HAT-TRICK

Returning from a back injury, Messi entered the fray against Panama in the 62nd minute. Not only did the sensational forward alter the tempo of the game, but he also showed once again why he is the best player in the world with three outstanding goals in 19 minutes.

MEXICO EXTEND UNBEATEN RUN

It should be no surprise that Mexico have topped Group C in the Copa America. After two wins and a draw, they have extended their unbeaten run to 22 games, as they continue to search for first ever Copa America title.

Meanwhile, Mexican forward Jesus Corona might have already scored the goal of the tournament after a dazzling solo run past five defenders before finding the back of the net. The goal saw Mexico equalise against Venezuela in the 80th minute and progress as group winners.

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