Summary
The soccer world turns its eyes to Atlanta this Thursday as the Copa America kicks off with a highly anticipated match between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With Argentina stepping onto the field as pre-tournament favorites, fans eagerly await the competition's commencement.
For Jesse Marsch's Canadian team, the challenge ahead is significant. Canada's performance in the lead-up to the Copa America has been mixed, featuring a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France, leaving many wondering about their readiness for the tournament.
Argentina, meanwhile, aims to assert its dominance on U.S. soil, particularly against a Canadian squad that remains an unknown quantity on the international stage. The faltering form of perennial rivals Brazil further strengthens Argentina's standing as tournament favorites.
How to Watch and Odds
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 comprises Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promising an intense and entertaining series of matches. While Argentina is poised to lead the group, Canada aims to make a mark by competing fiercely against Peru and Chile. This tournament is an invaluable learning opportunity for Canada as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
Team News
Argentina:
Argentina will miss some key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, seasoned veterans such as Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles in the tournament. Additionally, Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely to be crucial in midfield.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is transitioning beyond veterans like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, bringing fresh talent to the forefront. Key players to watch include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau takes on the role of the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles makes his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction
The match may start tight, with both teams cautiously feeling each other out. However, Argentina is expected to squeak by with a narrow victory. This result could still be encouraging for Canada, demonstrating their capability to compete at this level. Argentina is likely to top the group, setting up key matches for Canada against Peru and Chile.
Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.
Quotes
"The Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday," says a tournament spokesperson. "This will be Canada's first competitive test."
Reflecting on the tournament's context, another soccer analyst notes, "Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form suggests that Argentina are heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil."
The mix of teams in Group A promises exciting soccer, according to pundits, "This group makes for an interesting blend with potential for intense and entertaining soccer."
For Canada, the Copa America is part of a broader strategy: "This will all be about learning collectively with a view to the 2026 World Cup, which will be on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S."
Regardless of the outcome, this match is seen as beneficial for Canada: "This result will be encouraging for Canada."
Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.