Summary
The Copa America is set to kick off with an exciting clash as Argentina takes on Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans around the globe are eagerly awaiting the tournament, with Argentina entering as the pre-tournament favorites. For Jesse Marsch's Canadian team, however, the opening match signifies a considerable challenge.
Canada's journey to the Copa America has been marked by mixed results, including a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France. This upcoming match will serve as a critical test of Canada's readiness, as Argentina aims to assert its dominance on U.S. soil. The recent dip in form from Brazil has further strengthened Argentina's position as the tournament favorite.
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 is comprised of Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promising intense and entertaining soccer action throughout the tournament. While Argentina is the heavy favorite to top the group, Canada aims to compete fiercely against Peru and Chile. For Canada, the Copa America serves as a valuable learning experience as they build towards the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
Team News
Argentina
Argentina enters the tournament without key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, the team will rely on veterans such as Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi to play significant roles. Midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are also expected to be crucial starters. The possible Argentina starting XI is: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada
On the flip side, Canada's team is transitioning beyond the era of players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, with new talents emerging. Key players for the Canadian squad include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau is now the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles is set to make his senior debut. The possible Canada starting XI is: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction
The matchup between Argentina and Canada is expected to start tightly, but Argentina is likely to secure a narrow victory. A 1-0 win for Argentina is the anticipated outcome, which would still be an encouraging result for Canada as they measure themselves against a top-tier team. Despite the challenge, Canada's primary focus will be on its key matches against Peru and Chile, which are essential for their progression in the tournament.
In conclusion, the Copa America’s opening game between Argentina and Canada promises to be a thrilling encounter. Argentina seeks to leverage its strengths and current form to dominate, while Canada views this tournament as a crucial step in their development ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
"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."