Summary:
The Copa America is set to kick off with an exciting encounter between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans are eagerly anticipating the tournament, with Argentina stepping in as the pre-tournament favorites.
Canada, led by Jesse Marsch, faces a significant challenge in what promises to be a pivotal match. Pre-tournament results have been mixed for the Canadians, featuring a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France. This opening match will be an important test of Canada's readiness.
Meanwhile, Argentina is looking to dominate on U.S. soil, especially with Brazil experiencing a dip in form that further strengthens Argentina's position 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 consists of Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promising a series of intense and entertaining soccer matches. While Argentina is expected to top the group, Canada will look to compete closely with Peru and Chile. The tournament is also seen as a learning experience for Canada ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Team News:
Argentina:
Argentina will be missing some key players, including Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles. Key midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely starters, ensuring a balanced and experienced lineup.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is currently in a transitional phase, moving beyond seasoned players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. Emerging talents are stepping up, including notable players such as Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau is set to be the new 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.
Prediction:
Though the match may start off tight, Argentina is expected to secure a narrow victory. This result would still be encouraging for Canada as they eye their key matches against Peru and Chile. It's anticipated that Argentina will top the group. The expected outcome: Argentina 1, Canada 0.
Quotes:
As the excitement builds, one quote encapsulates the sentiment: "Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday."
This will be Canada's first major competitive test under their new head coach: "This will be Canada's first competitive test."
An acknowledged favorite, Argentina has been warned not to underestimate this match: "Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form suggests that Argentina are heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil."
Nonetheless, Argentina prepares to give their all: "Argentina has been warned ahead of this one."
Group A promises engaging matches: "This group makes for an interesting blend with potential for intense and entertaining soccer."
Canada's focus will remain firmly on the future: "This will all be about learning collectively with a view to the 2026 World Cup."
The upcoming World Cup, to be held on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S., adds to the impetus for growth: "The 2026 World Cup will be on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S."
Even with a likely loss against Argentina, the future remains promising for the Canadians: "This result will be encouraging for Canada."
The final call: "Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0."