Summary of the Copa America: Argentina vs. Canada
This Thursday marks the commencement of the Copa America with an exciting clash between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Fans are eagerly anticipating the tournament, with Argentina touted as the pre-tournament favorites. Meanwhile, Jesse Marsch's Canadian team faces a formidable challenge in this opening matchup.
Pre-Tournament Form
Canada's preparation for the Copa America has seen mixed results, including a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw with France. These matches have been pivotal in assessing the team's readiness for the tournament. In contrast, Argentina, despite missing some key players, aims to dominate on U.S. soil, seeking to capitalize on Brazil's recent dip in form to solidify their position as tournament favorites.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, June 20
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
- TV: FS1, Univision, TUDN
- Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)
- Odds: Argentina -333; Draw +400; Canada +900
Group A Overview
Group A consists of Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile. This group promises a series of intense and entertaining soccer matches. Canada aims to compete closely with Peru and Chile, viewing this tournament as a learning experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
Team News
Argentina
Argentina will be without key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos, but they still possess a formidable lineup. Veterans such as Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles, while stars like Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely to start.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada
Canada is experiencing a transition, moving beyond established players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, while new talents are emerging. Key players include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau has taken over as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, with Luc de Fougerolles set to make his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Match Prediction
Despite the potential for a tightly contested match, Argentina is expected to secure a narrow victory. This outcome would be encouraging for Canada, suggesting progress and providing valuable experience. Argentina is likely to top Group A, with Canada's critical matches being those against Peru and Chile.
Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.
Quotes and Insights
"Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday," kicks off an expert's view on the tournament. It's clear that "this will be Canada's first competitive test" in a setting that has Argentina as heavy favorites due to "Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form."
Despite the challenge, there's a sense of opportunity and learning for Canada, especially "with a view to the 2026 World Cup." Experts suggest that "this result will be encouraging for Canada," reflecting confidence in their long-term growth and competitive development.
Overall, the opening match of the Copa America between Argentina and Canada is not just a game but a significant milestone for both teams. For Argentina, it's a chance to assert dominance, while for Canada, it's an opportunity to grow and prepare for the future.