10 reasons why you should watch the 2011 Copa America

Showcasing the very best of South American football, the Copa America is a true festival of what has been dubbed 'The Beautiful Game'. This July, 12 teams will fight for the right to be crowned continental champions, over 28 hard-fought games finishing with the final in River Plate's legendary Estadio Monumental.

Despite the presence of some of the world's best teams, however, audiences outside of the Americas have often held a rather blasé approach to the Copa America. Of course, time differences play a big part in this; for example, Friday's opening match kicks off in La Plata at 01:50 BST, discouraging all but the most fervent fans of South American fútbol.

There have also been issues in the past with finding the games on television, and requiring cable or satellite packages to access the exciting matches on show. For those willing to burn the midnight oil and tune in though, the rewards and excitement could make the late nights more than worth it. Goal.com presents the top 10 reasons to watch this year's Copa America...

Will Tidey - Lionel Messi unlocks the door to greatness

Despite his undisputed genius, there was still a question mark over Lionel Messi's pedigree for greatness ahead of last night's Champions League semi-final with Real Madrid.

Messi might be a twice world footballer of the year, and still only 23 years old, but was his mesmeric talent applying itself when it really mattered?

The little maestro had scored a record 50 times for Barcelona this season before he stepped on the field, but not once in six previous matches at this stage of Europe's biggest club competition.

Maradona rates Real Madrid coach Mourinho ahead of Guardiola

Diego Maradona rates Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho ahead of Barcelona's Pep Guardiola.

Despite his ties to Barca, Maradona says Mourinho is the better coach.

He said: “If I were a president, I would hire Mourinho first, certainly because of his experience.