Summary of the Copa America Kickoff Match: Argentina vs. Canada
The highly anticipated Copa America will commence this Thursday with an exciting opening match between Argentina and Canada. The showdown is set to take place at the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, kicking off what promises to be a thrilling tournament. All eyes are on Argentina, who enter the competition as the pre-tournament favorites.
Challenges for Canada
Jesse Marsch's Canadian squad faces a formidable challenge as they go head-to-head with Argentina. Canada's lead-up to the Copa America has been less than ideal, marked by a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw with France. These mixed results are a testament to the hurdles Canada needs to overcome, and this match will be a crucial test of their readiness.
Argentina, on the other hand, aims to assert their dominance on U.S. soil, especially given Brazil's recent dip in form. This further cements Argentina's status as the leading contender in this year's tournament.
How to Watch and Odds
The opening match is scheduled for Thursday, June 20, at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the action live from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. The match will be broadcast on FS1, Univision, and TUDN. For those who prefer live streaming, Fubo offers a free trial. Betting odds currently favor Argentina at -333, with a draw listed at +400 and a Canadian upset at +900.
Group A Overview
Group A is set to deliver intense and entertaining soccer matches, featuring Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile. While Argentina is the frontrunner, Canada aims to be competitive, particularly in their matches against Peru and Chile. The tournament will serve as a valuable learning experience for Canada as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, an event they will co-host.
Team News
Argentina:
Argentina will be without key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. Despite these absences, the team boasts a wealth of experienced veterans, including Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi. Midfield stalwarts Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are expected to start, ensuring Argentina remains a formidable force.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is in a period of transition, moving beyond stalwarts like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. Emerging talents are stepping into the spotlight, with key players including Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau has been designated the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles is set to make his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction
The match is expected to be closely contested, particularly in the early stages. However, Argentina's class and experience are likely to shine through, allowing them to secure a narrow victory. A 1-0 win for Argentina seems a probable outcome, which, while a setback for Canada, would still provide valuable insights and encouragement as they progress through the tournament.
Argentina is projected to top Group A, while Canada's critical matches will be against Peru and Chile. These games will be pivotal in determining their progression in the tournament and serve as critical preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Quotes
"Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday," one expert notes, highlighting the significance of this match in setting the tone for the tournament.
"This will be Canada's first competitive test," underscoring the importance of the game for Marsch's squad as they transition and build towards future challenges.
With Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form, "Argentina are heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil," adding another layer of pressure and expectation on Messi and his teammates.
The mixed group of Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile promises "potential for intense and entertaining soccer," making Group A one to watch closely.
Ultimately, "this will all be about learning collectively with a view to the 2026 World Cup," with Canada's young squad gaining invaluable experience on the international stage.
The final prediction? "Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0."