The Copa América tournament, or America Cup, is a major soccer championship held in South America every two to four years with twelve teams from Latin America and sometimes from North America or Asia (Japan, the US, and Canada have participated). The first edition was held in 1916 in Argentina, with games played between Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. This year, it’s being held in Argentina again, and the Brazilian national team will face off against Venezuela, Paraguay, and Ecuador in the first round beginning next week. Brazil won the last two Copa América tournaments in 2007 and 2004, and is hoping to beat Argentina and Uruguay, which both hold 14 Copa América titles. Brazil holds eight titles, and wants a ninth!

Here’s a brief video discussing Brazilian national team coach Mano Menezes’ plans for the team he’s putting together for the championship:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWVawReLrVI

And here’s a news report about the history of Brazil at the Copa América:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpLpA1wcsKM

Watching the Copa América at your local sports bar or pub is a great way to meet Brazilians and practice your Portuguese!