The 2024 Copa America kicks off on June 21st with a marquee matchup: Argentina, the reigning champions, taking on a young and energetic Canadian side at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This Group A clash promises a fascinating contrast in styles and experience.
Argentina arrives brimming with confidence. Led by the legendary Lionel Messi, they boast a squad brimming with talent. Under coach Lionel Scaloni, they’ve transformed into a cohesive unit, winning the 2022 World Cup and remaining undefeated in their last 13 games. Messi, potentially playing in his final Copa America, will be eager to add another trophy to his already overflowing cabinet.
Canada, on the other hand, represents a new generation of North American football. Led by Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies, they qualified for the tournament for the first time since 2001. Despite a recent slump in form, Canada has a squad hungry to prove themselves on the big stage. Players like Jonathan David and Stephen Eustáquio offer a potent attacking threat, while Atiba Hutchinson brings experience and leadership to the midfield.
Historically, Argentina holds the upper hand. Their only encounter, a 2010 friendly, saw Argentina triumph 5-0. However, Canada’s recent rise and Argentina’s slight dip in form make this a more intriguing contest.
Here are some key storylines to watch:
- Messi vs. Davies: The battle between the seasoned maestro and the young prodigy will be a sight to behold. Messi’s experience and leadership will be crucial for Argentina, while Davies’ pace and dribbling ability could cause problems for the Argentine defense.
- Argentina’s defense: Despite their recent success, Argentina has conceded goals in their last few matches. Canada will be looking to exploit any weaknesses at the back.
- Canada’s organization: Against a team like Argentina, discipline and tactical awareness will be paramount. Can Canada withstand Argentina’s attacking pressure and launch their own counter-attacks?
This opening match sets the tone for both teams’ tournament journeys. Argentina will be looking to make a statement as defending champions, while Canada aims to prove they belong on this stage. With a passionate crowd and world-class talent on display, this promises to be a thrilling encounter that kicks off the Copa America in style.
Starting Date, Time & Venue
Starting Date: Thursday, June 20th, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, USA
TV Channels of Canada vs Argentina
United States
- English: FS1
- Spanish: TUDN, Univision
Canada
- English: TSN, CTV
- French: RDS
Argentina
Local channels will likely broadcast the game, but the specific channels may vary depending on the region.
Argentina vs. Canada Line up
Here are the predicted lineups for Argentina vs. Canada in the Copa America opener on June 20th, 2024:
Argentina (4-4-2):
- Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa)
- Defenders: Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur), Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United), Nicolas Tagliafico (Olympique Lyonnais)
- Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul (Atletico Madrid), Leandro Paredes (AS Roma), Alexis Mac Allister (Brighton & Hove Albion), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea) *There’s a possibility Paredes starts over Fernandez.
- Forwards: Lionel Messi (Paris Saint-Germain), Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan) *Julian Alvarez (Manchester City) could also get the starting nod.
Canada (4-4-2):
- Goalkeeper: Milan Borjan (CF Montreal) *Option: Maxime Crepeau (Los Angeles FC)
- Defenders: Alistair Johnston (CF Montreal), Moise Bombito (CF Montreal), Derek Cornelius (Vancouver Whitecaps), Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich)
- Midfielders: Tajon Buchanan (Inter Milan), Ismael Kone (Watford), Stephen Eustaquio (FC Porto), David Millar (CF Montreal)
- Forwards: Cyle Larin (Orlando City), Jonathan David (Lille OSC)
These are just predictions, and the actual lineups could be different depending on manager decisions and last-minute changes.
Prediction
Argentina enters their Copa America title defense as heavy favorites against Canada in their opening match on June 20th, 2024. Here’s a comprehensive analysis of the matchup:
Argentina’s Strong Form:
- Argentina boasts an impressive recent record, winning 13 of their last 14 matches across all competitions.
- Their defense has been particularly resolute, conceding only 4 goals in that span, highlighting a well-organized backline.
- The presence of Lionel Messi and a squad brimming with experience makes them a formidable opponent.
Canada’s Underdog Status:
- Canada, making their Copa America debut, faces a significant challenge against the reigning champions.
- While boasting talented players like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David, Canada lacks the overall experience and squad depth of Argentina.
- Their recent form hasn’t been as convincing, with only one win in their last four matches.
Predicted Outcome:
- Based on current form and historical matchups (Argentina won their only previous meeting 5-0), a convincing victory for Argentina is highly likely.
- Predictions favor a scoreline of 2-0 or 3-0 in Argentina’s favor.
- However, football is known for its unpredictability, and Canada could potentially create an upset if they capitalize on any defensive lapses by Argentina.
Key Factors to Watch:
- Can Canada’s attacking duo of Davies and David breach Argentina’s strong defense?
- Will Argentina’s midfield, led by Leandro Paredes, control the tempo of the game?
- Can Lionel Messi continue his impressive scoring form and inspire his team?
Overall, Argentina is the clear favorite to win this opening match. However, Canada should not be entirely discounted, and their performance will be a major talking point as the Copa America unfolds.