Summary: Argentina Faces Canada in Copa America Opener
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as the Copa America kicks off with Argentina facing Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans are eagerly anticipating the tournament as Argentina enters as the pre-tournament favorites, especially given Brazil's recent dip in form. Jesse Marsch's Canadian team, meanwhile, faces a significant challenge as they prepare to test their mettle against the formidable Argentinians.
Canada's Mixed Results Ahead of Copa America
Canada's preparation for the Copa America has seen mixed results. The team suffered a defeat against the Netherlands and managed only a draw against France. These performances have raised questions about Canada's readiness for the tournament. The match against Argentina will be a crucial indicator of their form and preparedness.
Argentina Aims for Dominance on U.S. Soil
Argentina comes into the tournament with high expectations. The team aims to dominate on U.S. soil, strengthened by a roster that, while missing key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos, still boasts veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi. Additionally, Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely to be central figures in the starting XI.
How to Watch and Odds
Fans can catch the action live on FS1, Univision, and TUDN. The match will also be available for streaming on Fubo (try for free). The kickoff is scheduled for Thursday, June 20, at 8 p.m. ET at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. According to the odds, Argentina is the favorite at -333, a draw is priced at +400, and a Canada win at +900.
Group A Overview
Group A features Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile. The group promises intense and entertaining soccer, with Canada aiming to compete with Peru and Chile. For Canada, the tournament serves as a learning experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Team News
Argentina:
Argentina will miss the services of Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, the team will be bolstered by the presence of veterans Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi. Key midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are expected to be in the starting lineup.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is in a phase of transition, moving beyond players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, and embracing new talents. The team will rely on top players such as Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau is the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles will be making his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction
The match is expected to be a tight contest initially, but Argentina is likely to edge out Canada narrowly. A predicted scoreline of Argentina 1, Canada 0 reflects the anticipated outcome. While a loss would not be ideal for Canada, performing well against a strong team like Argentina would still be an encouraging result.
Argentina is expected to top Group A, with Canada's most crucial matches likely to be against Peru and Chile. For Canada, this tournament is as much about gaining experience and learning collectively for the future as it is about immediate results, particularly with an eye on the 2026 World Cup.
Quotes
"Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday."
"This will be Canada's first competitive test."
"Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form suggests that Argentina are heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil."
"Argentina has been warned ahead of this one."
"This group makes for an interesting blend with potential for intense and entertaining soccer."
"This will all be about learning collectively with a view to the 2026 World Cup."
"The 2026 World Cup will be on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S."
"This result will be encouraging for Canada."
"Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0."