Summary:
The highly anticipated Copa America will kick off with a notable opening match between Argentina and Canada at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans across the globe are eagerly awaiting the tournament, with Argentina entering as the clear pre-tournament favorites.
Argentina Eyes Dominance
Argentina aims to assert its dominance on U.S. soil, bolstered by a squad featuring a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talents. With Brazil experiencing a dip in form post-World Cup, Argentina's position as the favorite has only strengthened. The team will be missing key players such as Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos, but veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles. Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are also likely starters in a lineup that showcases Argentina's depth and versatility.
Canada's Challenge
On the other side, Jesse Marsch’s Canadian team faces a significant challenge right out of the gate. Canada’s recent run-up to the Copa America saw mixed results, including a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France, which has given them both learning experiences and moments of reflection. This match against Argentina will be a crucial test of their readiness and resolve.
Canada is in a transition phase, moving beyond seasoned players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. New talents are emerging, with top players such as Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio stepping into pivotal roles. Maxime Crepeau is now the primary goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles is set to make his senior debut.
How to Watch and Odds
Mark your calendars for Thursday, June 20, at 8 p.m. ET to catch this exciting match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. The game will be televised on FS1, Univision, and TUDN. For those looking to stream it live, Fubo offers a free trial.
The betting odds are heavily in favor of Argentina at -333, with a draw at +400 and Canada at +900, reflecting the significant challenge facing the underdogs.
Group A Overview
Group A features Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile. This group promises to deliver intense and entertaining soccer, with each team bringing its unique strengths and strategies. While Argentina is favored to top the group, Canada’s key matches will be against Peru and Chile, where they aim to compete fiercely and secure crucial points.
For Canada, the Copa America is more than just a tournament; it’s a learning experience as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The knowledge and experience gained here will be invaluable as they look forward to competing on home soil in the future.
Team News
Argentina:
Absent key players:
Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos.
Key veterans expected to play significant roles:
Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi.
Likely starters:
Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes.
Possible Argentina XI:
E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Transitioning beyond key players:
Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson.
Emerging talents:
Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, Stephen Eustáquio.
New No. 1 goalkeeper:
Maxime Crepeau.
Senior debut:
Luc de Fougerolles.
Possible Canada XI:
Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction:
The match is expected to start tightly contested, but Argentina’s quality and experience will likely see them edge out Canada in the end. A narrow victory for Argentina is predicted, with a scoreline of Argentina 1, Canada 0. Even with a loss, such a result would be encouraging for Canada as they continue their development journey. Argentina is predicted to top the group, while Canada should focus on their critical matches against Peru and Chile.