Top 15 under the radar players to watch in Copa America

While the Copa America Centenario will feature plenty of star power, these 15 under the radar players could make a difference.

One of the most anticipated sporting events of the year is nearly upon us, as the Copa America Centenario is set to get underway on June 3.

The Copa America is typically held every four years between the ten South American teams of CONMEBOL plus two guests from either CONCACAF or AFC to round out the 12-team field. As a celebration of the 100th anniversary, the Copa America Centenario will expand to 16 teams and be hosted in cities across the United States over the next month.

With the powerhouses of South America plus top CONCACAF teams like Mexico and the United States, some of the top stars in soccer will be in action in the Copa America. Lionel Messi will try to work his magic and lead Argentina to its first Copa America win since 1993, with other stars such as Luis Suarez, Alexis Sanchez and James Rodriguez also among the Golden Ball contenders.

Top teams like defending champion Chile and Uruguay have brought their best squad to the Centenario, which doesn’t always happen in the Copa America. Mexico enters the tournament as the favorite due to a strong mix of star power and exciting youth, while Brazil will feature plenty of household names despite saving much of its typical starting lineup for the Olympics later this summer.

However, it will take more than just individual stars to emerge as Centenario champions. The Copa America will give a few under the radar players an opportunity to step into the limelight, and the eventual title winner is sure to feature some unexpected heroes.

Teams like Venezuela and Paraguay will feature plenty of young talented players looking to break out, while even heavy underdog Haiti has some intriguing pieces. Look for these 15 underrated players to emerge at the Copa America Centenario.

Next: 15. Duckens Nazon, F, Haiti