Lucas Paqueta is hoping he and his nation can go all the way in this year’s Copa America tournament following on from their defeat in the final three years ago.

Nine time winners of the tournament, Brazil, lost to Argentina in the final in 2021. West Ham’s number 10 was on the pitch for 76 minutes of that game and would make six appearances during that years edition of the tournament.

Having won the competition at 21 years old in 2019, Paqueta is now about to play in his third Copa America and is hopeful that The Selecao can go all the way this year.

“It’s a unique feeling, and a real privilege to represent Brazil at another Copa America.” said Paqueta to the clubs Official Website. The West Ham midfielder went on to add: “There’s no better feeling than winning a cup for your country. The national team is going through a transition phase with new players and a new footballing philosophy, so I just hope we can settle in quickly, hit the ground running, and bring the Copa America home once again.”

Brazil’s opening game of the 2024 Copa America is against Costa Rica, they then take on Paraguay before their final group game against Colombia which should certainly be an exciting match up.

Reaching the knockout stages of the competition would be the minimum expectation considering the depth of talent and quality at Brazil’s disposal including the likes of Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo and Raphina of Barcelona to name a few. Paqueta, who won the most recent of his 46 caps against the USA on the 13th of June, is looking to finish the tournament with a new medal to add to his personal trophy cabinet which includes a Conference League winners medal with West Ham.

“I believe every game will bring its challenges, but I hope the fact that we’re one of the big favourites will prevail by playing a good style of football and most importantly, winning.” said the West Ham midfielder.