It’s been almost 100 years since the first Copa America, and the 2016 Centennial Copa America will be its 44th tournament. The tournament mainly takes place between the CONMEBOL teams and was originally a battle to determine the champion of South America. CONMEBOL contains ten teams, and this year they will invite six other teams to join the tournament. A few new changes will take place for this tournament including that the United States will host the tournament for the first time, and that FIFA have added it to their calendar. Having the Copa America be on FIFA’s calendar really makes it a more important tournament.

FIFA adding the tournament to its calendar means that clubs are obligated to release their players. This may affect club play negatively, but it makes the tournament all the more exciting. CONMEBOL is home to some of the world’s best players. Leo Messi, Neymar Jr. and James Rodriguez are a few of the world’s best players that are a part of CONMEBOL, and who will play in the Copa America. Not to mention that the USMNT and Costa Rica will also play in the Centennial Copa America along with four other countries, which have yet to be determined. Having the world’s top players compete makes it even better than many could have hoped for.

Historically, Uruguay has been the most victorious by winning the most tournaments with 16 titles. They will face a bigger challenge this time around. Not only did many CONMEBOL teams have a very successful World Cup run, but also Uruguay will still be without their star striker Luis Suarez. Suarez was suspended during the World Cup when he bit Giorgio Chiellini during Uruguay’s match against Italy. Unfortunately, he will still be ineligible to play for the tournament.

The 2016 Centennial Copa America is shaping up to be an exciting match, and soccer fans are not going to want to miss it.

Jackee Arce is a soccer writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow her on Twitter @knackeredwriter, like her on Facebook or add her to your network on Google.