Exciting Copa America Opener: Argentina vs Canada Preview

Summary:

The excitement is building as the Copa America kicks off with a thrilling match between Argentina and Canada. The game will be held at the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans globally are eagerly awaiting this tournament, with Argentina entering as the pre-tournament favorites.

Argentina as Favorites

Argentina's dominance on U.S. soil becomes even more palpable, especially given Brazil's recent dip in form. The Brazilians' lackluster performances post-World Cup have significantly bolstered Argentina's status as the heavy favorites to clinch the trophy.

Canada’s Challenging Road

Jesse Marsch’s Canadian team faces an uphill battle. With mixed results leading up to the Copa America, including a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw with France, Canada’s readiness will be put to the test. However, this match against a formidable Argentine squad offers a valuable learning experience as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup.

Match Details and Broadcast Information:

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

Overview of Group A:

Group A features Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promising an intense and entertaining showcase of soccer. For Canada, this tournament serves as a stepping stone and a learning opportunity ahead of their 2026 World Cup campaign, which will be hosted on home soil shared with the U.S. and Mexico. Competing with teams like Peru and Chile will provide crucial experience for the Canadian squad.

Team News and Lineups:

Argentina:

Despite missing key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos, Argentina boasts a robust squad with veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi expected to play pivotal roles. The midfield is likely to be anchored by Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes, critical cogs in Argentina’s machinery.

Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.

Canada:

Canada is undergoing a transition beyond the days of Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. While these names served the national team well, new talents are emerging to take up the mantle. Key players for the Canadian side include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau will stand as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, while 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 initial stages of the match may see some tight plays, but ultimately Argentina is expected to edge out Canada, albeit narrowly. The projected score stands at Argentina 1, Canada 0. Despite the anticipated defeat, a resilient performance by Canada would be an encouraging sign for their future fixtures.

The upcoming critical matches for Canada against Peru and Chile will determine their standing in Group A. Nevertheless, Argentina's expertise and experience are likely to see them at the top of the group.

The Copa America promises to be an electrifying tournament filled with high-stakes matches and captivating storylines, with Argentina and Canada set to deliver an engaging opener.

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."