Argentina Dominates Canada to Reach Copa America Final
Argentina defeats Canada 2-0 in the Copa America semifinal, led by Lionel Messi's exceptional skill and leadership. The win sends Argentina to the final in pursuit of their 16th Copa America title, while Canada will play in Third Place of the tournament with either Uruguay or Colombia.
Argentina has secured a spot in the Copa America final with a convincing 2-0 victory over Canada, thanks to the leadership of Inter Miami striker Lionel Messi. The win marks a significant milestone for the team as they inch closer to their 16th Copa America title.
Messi, 37, showcased his exceptional skill when he deflected a shot by Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, successfully dodging Canada's goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau and doubling Argentina's lead six minutes into the second half. This move further solidified Messi's reputation as a master of the game.
The first goal was scored by Manchester City's Julian Alvarez, who received a pass from Atletico Madrid's Rodrigo de Paul and netted the ball from close range, giving the World Cup champions an early lead. This goal marked the beginning of Argentina's dominance in the match.
As a 15-time Copa America winner, Argentina is no stranger to the championship game, having made six appearances in the final in the last eight editions. The team's experience and skill will undoubtedly be an advantage in the upcoming final.
However, there are lingering questions about Messi's future in the sport. Despite his impressive performance, there is uncertainty surrounding how much longer he will continue playing. One thing is certain, though - Angel di Maria will be making his final appearance for Argentina in the upcoming final against either Uruguay or Colombia before retiring from international play.
“Let's enjoy what we are experiencing as a national team, as a group. It is not easy to be in a final again, to compete again to be champions,” Messi told TyC Sports.
“I'm living it as I have been living everything lately enjoying it very much and being aware, as it happens to Fideo (Di Maria) and Ota (Nicolas Otamendi), that these are the last battles.”
Lionel Scaloni, the manager of Argentina, says he would try to “convince” Messi and Di Maria to stay on the international team
“For Leo (Messi), it's similar to Angel,” said Scaloni.
“We have to let him be and we will never be the ones to close the door. He can be with our team for as long as he wants to be. And if he wants to retire but still come and hang around, it would be great.”
Jacob Shaffelburg, a winger for Nashville in the MLS, missed Canada's most promising chances in the early stages of the game against Argentina. Despite his efforts, Canada struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, and Alvarez's goal gave Argentina a firmer grip on the match.
As the 48th-ranked team in the world, Canada's momentum began to wane after conceding the goal. Their best chance came in stoppage time during the first half when Jonathan David, a Lille attacker, received a long throw, but his shot was directed straight at Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who made a comfortable save.
Despite the loss, Canada exceeded expectations in their inaugural Copa America appearance. As co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup alongside Mexico and the USA, Jesse Marsch's team will now face the losers of the other semifinal in a third-place playoff on Sunday, aiming to secure a podium finish and end their campaign on a high note.
Lionel Messi won man of the match.
“What I said to the team afterwards is I know that they're very disappointed, but I'm very proud of them,” said Marsch.
“We've put together some incredible performances, just starting our process.”
It is imperative, according to Marsch, that Canada figure out how to “expand” their “player pool” in the upcoming years.
The Copa America final is scheduled for Monday, July 15, at 01:00 BST, and the semi-final between Uruguay and Colombia is scheduled for Thursday, July 11, at 01:00 BST.
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