Argentina vs Canada - Copa America Opening Match Preview

Summary:

The highly anticipated Copa America will kick off with a thrilling match between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans have been eagerly waiting for the tournament, with Argentina being the pre-tournament favorites.

Jesse Marsch's Canadian side is poised to face a formidable challenge. Canada has had mixed results in the lead-up to the Copa America, experiencing a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France. This opening match will be a key test of Canada's readiness.

Argentina's Ambitions on U.S. Soil

Argentina aims to assert its dominance on American soil. With Brazil experiencing a dip in form, Argentina's position as the tournament favorite has been further strengthened. The team is determined to make a strong impression and solidify its status as a top contender.

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 it for free)

Odds: Argentina -333; Draw +400; Canada +900

Group A Overview:

Group A comprises Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promising a series of intense and entertaining soccer matches. Canada aims to compete fiercely with Peru and Chile, while every game in the group has the potential to be a crucial learning experience, especially with the 2026 World Cup looming on the horizon.

Team News:

Argentina:

Despite missing key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos, Argentina remains a formidable team. Veterans Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles, with Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes likely to be in the starting lineup.

Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.

Canada:

Canada is transitioning beyond the era of players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. New talents are emerging and stepping up to fill the roles. Key players for Canada include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau has taken over as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and Luc de Fougerolles is set for his senior debut.

Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.

Prediction:

The match is expected to start on a tight note, but Argentina is favored to secure a narrow victory. Such a result would still be encouraging for Canada, indicating progress and potential for future games. Argentina is likely to top Group A, while Canada's key matches will be against Peru and Chile, providing valuable experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.

Quotes:

"The Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday."

"This will be Canada's first competitive test."

"Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form suggests that Argentina are heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil."

As anticipation builds for this opening clash, all eyes will be on how both teams fare in their opening encounter. A win for Argentina could set the tone for the rest of the tournament, while Canada will look to prove that they can be competitive on such a big stage. This game promises to be a fascinating start to what is expected to be an enthralling Copa America tournament.