Lionel Messi was instrumental as world champions Argentina defeated Canada 2-0 on Tuesday to advance to the Copa America final. Argentina, seeking their third consecutive major title, will face the winner of Wednesday’s semi-final between Uruguay and Colombia in Miami on Sunday.
Match Highlights:
- Venue: MetLife Stadium, capacity crowd of 82,500
- Argentina’s Performance: The 15-time Copa champions showcased their best performance of the tournament, reminiscent of their 2022 World Cup victory.
- Canada’s Journey: Canada, making their first Copa America appearance, reached the semi-finals but struggled against a formidable Argentine side.
Key Moments:
- Early Canadian Chance: Jacob Shaffelburg had an early opportunity for Canada, but his shot went wide.
- Argentine Dominance: Argentina took control after the early scare, with Angel Di Maria frequently finding Messi in dangerous positions.
- Opening Goal: In the 22nd minute, Rodrigo De Paul delivered a precise lofted ball to Julian Alvarez, who scored with a deft touch past Moises Bombito.
- Second Goal: Six minutes into the second half, De Paul set up Enzo Fernandez, whose shot was redirected by Messi into the net. VAR confirmed Messi was onside, securing Argentina’s two-goal lead.
Team Dynamics:
- Argentine Trio: The combination of Di Maria, Messi, and De Paul was a constant threat to Canada’s defense.
- Defensive Solidity: Argentina’s well-organized defense allowed them to sit back and conserve energy after establishing their lead.
- Late Canadian Effort: Substitute Tani Oluwaseyi forced a save from Emiliano Martinez, but Argentina remained untroubled.
Strategic Insights:
- Argentina’s Build-Up Play: Reflecting confidence and creativity, coach Lionel Scaloni’s team balanced organizational solidity with fluid attacking play.
- Canada’s Approach: Despite early high-energy tactics, Jesse Marsch’s team couldn’t maintain the pressure against a superior Argentine side.
Argentina now stands one win away from a record 16th Copa America triumph, highlighting their dominance and continued excellence in international football.
