SportsDonna

The 2025 Copa America ended on August 2nd in Quito, Ecuador with a thrilling final between Brazil and Colombia. After extra time, the match finished 4-4, with Brazil winning 5-4 on penalties to claim their ninth title and fifth in a row. Marta, who was playing her last Copa America, scored twice late in the game to keep Brazil alive. Because of the result, Brazil and Colombia both qualified for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, who came in third, fourth, and fifth, respectively, also got Pan American slots as the top five non-host teams. Combines with host Peru, that completes the South American representation at Lima 2027. The tournament not only had exciting games and historic moments, but it also showed off a new generation of talent that is ready to make a name for itself on the world stage.

At just 18 years old, Valerin Loboa is already emerging as one of the most promising young women’s football players. Loboa was instrumental in Colombia’s run to the Copa América 2025 championship game. She made a lasting impression with her quick speed, assured dribbling, and poise in front of goal. By daringly taking on defenders one-on-one and creating opportunities in close situations, she constantly presents a threat. She displays exceptional poise and tactical awareness on the field for her age. Mayra Ramírez, another strong and resilient Colombian attacker, made a significant contribution with her exceptional physical presence and aerial skill. Ramírez and Loboa work well together and could help Colombia achieve even more success abroad.

For Ecuador, Emily Arias emerged as one of the tournament’s revelations. Arias, a versatile midfielder with a high wok rate, showed remarkable vision and the capacity to manage the game’s pace. Her defensive contributions demonstrated her dedication to the team’s balance, and her poise under pressure and accurate passing made her an essential link between defense and attack. Despite her youth, Anais Alvarez, who is only eighteen, displayed hints of great potential in Chile’s team. She was a quick and talented winger who showed courage when facing seasoned defenders and brought creativity to any situation when she had the ball. According to her performance, she has the potential to become one of Chile’s most valuable offensive tools in the years to come.

The 23-years-old Maricel Pereyra was reliable and diligent player in Argentina’s midfield who was renowned for her ability to win duels and switch play quickly. Especially during Argentina’s third place finish, her strong tackling, endurance, and leadership abilities were evident. Floriangel Apostol, who is only 19 years old, also showed herself to be one of Venezuela’s most promising young attackers. She participated in the tournament despite her youth and showed quickness, directness, and a willingness to take on defenders. Her poise, technical skill, and enthusiasm indicate that she could be a vital offensive weapon for Venezuela in upcoming tournaments.

The 2025 Copa America was about more than just who won, it was about watching the future come to life. Although Marta’s tearful farewell and Brazil’s victory will be remembered for years, the young talent that stole the show may be the true story. They demonstrated that the next generation in South America is prepared to take the lead. These up-and-coming athletes have an opportunity to inspire the upcoming generation of athletes throughout the continent and have an even greater impact as the Olympics and Pan American Games approach.