Summary:
The excitement is palpable as the Copa America kicks off with a highly anticipated match between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday.
Argentina enters the tournament as the pre-tournament favorites, and their fans are eagerly awaiting a dominant performance on U.S. soil. Jesse Marsch's Canadian team, however, faces a significant challenge right out of the gate.
Canada's Road to the Copa America:
Canada had mixed results leading up to the Copa America, suffering a defeat against the Netherlands and managing a draw against France. These matches served as critical tests of their readiness, and the team has shown both strengths and weaknesses. The upcoming match against Argentina will further gauge Canada's capabilities and provide valuable insights into their progress.
Argentina's Aspirations:
Argentina is undoubtedly aiming to dominate the tournament, especially with the advantage of Brazil's dip in form bolstering their position as favorites. This tournament represents a prime opportunity for Argentina to showcase their prowess on a global stage.
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 features Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promising fans intense and entertaining soccer action. Canada aims to compete fiercely with Peru and Chile, using this tournament as a stepping stone and a learning experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
Team News:
Argentina:
Argentina will be missing key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles in the team’s campaign. Midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely starters, ensuring Argentina's strength in the center of the park. The probable Argentina XI includes: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is navigating a transition beyond experienced players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. New talents are emerging, and the squad includes top players such as Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau steps in as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles is set to make his senior debut. The possible Canada XI is: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction:
The match is expected to start tightly contested, but Argentina's strength could see them edge out a narrow victory. A predicted scoreline of Argentina 1, Canada 0 suggests a competitive game that will still be an encouraging result for Canada. With Argentina likely to top the group, Canada’s key matches will be against Peru and Chile, where they will look to secure crucial points and advance further in the tournament.
Quotes from the Field:
"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."