Asia

Japan Invited To Copa America 2011 Along With Mexico

The USA will not partake in the tournament next time around...

Jun 2, 2009 7:09:17 PM

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WCQ:Shunsuke Nakamura,Japan - Bahrain

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Japan have been invited to play in the Copa America 2011 in Argentina, along with regular outsiders, Mexico.

Should the Asian nation accept it will only be the second time they have taken part in the tournament, and a return after nearly a decade away.

The last time they played was in the 1999 version and on that occasion they failed to win a match, drawing once and losing twice.

In the three games they conceded a total of eight goals, but will no doubt relish the chance to prove themselves against the likes of Argentina and Brazil.

CONMEBOL have released an official statement today, confirming the invitations to both Japan and Mexico.

"El Sr. Julio Grondona, president of the Argentinian Football Association, has confirmed his country as the host of the Copa America in 2011. An invitation to the Japanese Football Association will be sent out. The other place will be for Mexico. The cities of La Plata, Cordoba, Santa Fe, Jujuy and Salta will host this traditional competition," read the statement.

Argentina will go into the tournament looking to pick up their 15th title, but will have to take the crown from Brazil, who lifted it in 2007.

James Walker-Roberts, Goal.com