Summary:
The Copa America is set to kick off with Argentina taking on Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans are eagerly anticipating the tournament, with Argentina widely perceived as the pre-tournament favorites. Jesse Marsch's Canadian team faces a significant challenge in their opener.
Pre-Tournament Favorites
Argentina, coming into the tournament on a high note, aims to establish dominance on U.S. soil. The team has a strong lineup, although they are missing key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. Veterans such as Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles. Meanwhile, Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely to start.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada's Challenge
Canada's squad is in transition, moving beyond veteran talents like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. New talents are emerging as the team looks to the future. Top players for Canada include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau has taken up the mantle as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles is set to make his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Mixed Results for Canada
Canada's preparation for the Copa America has been a mixed bag. They suffered a defeat against the Netherlands and managed a draw against France. This match against Argentina will be a crucial test of Canada's readiness and a stepping stone for future competitions, particularly the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Argentina's Favorable Odds
Brazil's recent dip in form has bolstered Argentina's position as the tournament favorite. The odds are heavily in Argentina's favor, with the team listed at -333. A draw stands at +400, while Canada is seen as the underdog with odds of +900.
How to Watch
The match will take place on Thursday, June 20, at 8 p.m. ET. It will be held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Fans can catch the game on FS1, Univision, and TUDN, or stream it live on Fubo, which offers a free trial.
Group A Overview
Group A of the Copa America comprises Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile. This group promises intense and entertaining soccer. While Argentina is expected to top the group, Canada will aim to compete with Peru and Chile. For Canada, the tournament serves as valuable preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Match Prediction
The match is predicted to start tight but ultimately see Argentina securing a narrow victory. A 1-0 result in favor of Argentina is anticipated. This outcome would still be encouraging for Canada, highlighting their potential and growth as they look ahead to more crucial matches against Peru and Chile.
Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.
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.