Summary
The Copa America will commence with an exciting matchup between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Soccer fans eagerly await the tournament, with Argentina positioned as the pre-tournament favorites. Jesse Marsch's Canadian squad, however, faces a formidable challenge.
Pre-Tournament Expectations
Canada's journey to the Copa America included a mix of results: a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France. These outcomes indicate that the match against Argentina will test Canada's preparedness. Meanwhile, Argentina is gearing up to dominate on U.S. soil, especially with Brazil's recent dip in form solidifying Argentina's status as the 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 features a dynamic mix of teams, including Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile. Fans can expect intense and entertaining soccer matches. Canada's primary aim will be to compete effectively against Peru and Chile, while the tournament serves as an invaluable learning experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Team News
Argentina:
Argentina will be without key players such as Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles. Midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are also likely starters.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is transitioning beyond players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, with new talents emerging. The spotlight will be on key players such as Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau will assume the role of the No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles will make his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Game Analysis
The match is anticipated to be tight initially, but Argentina is expected to secure a narrow victory. This predicted outcome highlights Argentina's strength and underscores their likelihood of topping Group A. For Canada, regardless of the result, the experience will be encouraging as they continue to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Canada's key matches will be against Peru and Chile, which will likely determine their advancement in the tournament.
Quotes and Insights
"Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday," said one observer. This marks Canada's first major competitive test under Jesse Marsch, and the team is ready to prove its mettle. Argentina, aware of Brazil's recent struggles, enters the tournament as strong favorites. Even with key players missing, the depth and experience of Argentina's squad make them the team to beat.
"This group makes for an interesting blend with potential for intense and entertaining soccer," added another analyst. The mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents will undoubtedly make each match in Group A worth watching. For Canada, the focus is squarely on learning and growing collectively, with an eye on making a significant impact at the 2026 World Cup.
Final Prediction
The expectation is that Argentina will edge out Canada with a 1-0 victory. This result would be a positive take for Canada, showcasing their potential to compete at a higher level and providing valuable insights and experience as they build toward future competitions.
"Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0."