Lionel Messi’s Argentina opened their Copa América title defense with a 2-0 triumph over a tricky Canada side.
Argentina triumphed 2-0 over Canada in the inaugural match of the 2024 Copa América at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia as goals from Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez propelled the reigning champions to first on the Group A standings.
La Albiceleste kicked off strong, testing Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau early on to make the North Americans uncomfortable. Canada coach Jesse Marsch’s side didn’t back down, however, managing several shots to keep Argentina uncomfortable until the halftime whistle.
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After the second whistle, Argentina found the energy that led them to the 2021 Copa América and 2022 World Cup title. A key pass by Lionel Messi to Alexis Mac Allister in the 49th minute inspired the build-up to the first goal, allowing the Liverpool figure to connect with Álvarez to gain the lead.
Canada attempted to bounce back, but substitute Martínez entered the game with the necessary vigor to find the back of the net first and double the score.
Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina will now prepare to face Chile on Tuesday night at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey for the second group stage match of the tournament.
