The Copa America Kicks Off with Argentina vs. Canada in Atlanta
This Thursday, the Copa America tournament is set to commence with a thrilling match between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. As the tournament approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating exhilarating soccer, with Argentina being the pre-tournament favorites.
The Canadian team, led by coach Jesse Marsch, is bracing for a significant challenge. Their readiness will be put to the test against a formidable Argentine side. Canada's lead-up to the tournament has been a mixed bag, having recently experienced a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw with France. These results indicate that while the team has potential, they will need to elevate their game to compete against top-tier teams like Argentina.
Argentina's Ambitions and Brazil's Decline
Argentina aims to dominate the tournament on U.S. soil. With Brazil experiencing a dip in form after the World Cup, Argentina's position as the favorite has only been reinforced. This tournament presents a golden opportunity for Argentina to assert their dominance and possibly take home the trophy.
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, making for a group brimming with potential for intense and entertaining soccer. While Argentina is undoubtedly the strongest team in the group, Canada, Peru, and Chile are all set to fight for advancement. For Canada, this tournament will be a crucial learning experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held on home soil shared with Mexico and the U.S.
Team News
Argentina
Despite missing key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos, Argentina remains a force to be reckoned with. Veterans such as Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles, while Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely starters. The probable starting XI for Argentina is:
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada
Canada is transitioning beyond veteran players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, with new talents emerging on the scene. Key players to watch include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau is set to take over as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles will make his senior debut. Canada's probable starting XI is:
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction
The match is likely to begin tightly contested; however, Argentina is expected to edge out a narrow victory. A 1-0 scoreline in favor of Argentina would not only affirm their status as group favorites but also provide an encouraging performance for Canada as they gear up for their key matches against Peru and Chile. Ultimately, Argentina is likely to top Group A, while Canada will focus on gaining valuable experience and aiming for competitive performances.
Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.
Quotes
"Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday." This much-anticipated matchup will be Canada's first competitive test in the tournament, offering a vital preview of their potential ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how both teams perform in this opening fixture.
"Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form suggests that Argentina are heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil." Argentina's team has been forewarned about complacency and is well-prepared to showcase their prowess.
"This group makes for an interesting blend with potential for intense and entertaining soccer." The Group A combination promises action-packed matches, as each team brings its own strengths and strategies to the pitch.
"This will all be about learning collectively with a view to the 2026 World Cup." For Canada, the Copa America represents more than just a tournament; it's a learning journey in preparation for their World Cup debut on home turf in 2026.
"This result will be encouraging for Canada." Even a narrow defeat against a strong Argentine side would be a positive indicator of Canada's progress and potential.