Summary:
The Copa America is set to kick off with an exciting opener between Argentina and Canada at the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Fans across the globe are eagerly awaiting the tournament, with Argentina entering as the pre-tournament favorites.
Canada, led by head coach Jesse Marsch, faces a significant challenge in this opening match. In their preparatory matches leading up to Copa America, Canada experienced mixed results, including a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France. This first match will serve as a vital test of Canada's readiness and potential in the tournament.
Argentina aims to assert their dominance, especially on U.S. soil where they enjoy substantial support. Brazil's current dip in form has further bolstered Argentina's position as the favorites to win the tournament.
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 features four strong teams: Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile. This group promises to deliver intense and entertaining soccer matches. While Argentina is expected to lead the group, Canada is focused on competing with Peru and Chile to secure a spot in the knockout rounds. This tournament serves as a crucial learning experience for Canada as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Team News:
Argentina:
Argentina will be missing key players such as Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos due to injuries. However, the team will rely heavily on veteran stars like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi, who are all expected to play pivotal roles. Midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are also likely to start, adding strength to the squad.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is in a transitional phase, moving beyond experienced players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. The team is now integrating new talents into their roster. 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 to make his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction:
The opening match between Argentina and Canada is anticipated to be a closely contested affair. While Canada will look to make an impression and test their growth, Argentina's experience and talent are expected to shine through. The match may start tight, but Argentina's quality is likely to lead them to a narrow victory.
Expect a final scoreline of Argentina 1, Canada 0, which would still be an encouraging result for Canada. Argentina is likely to top Group A, while Canada's key matches against Peru and Chile will determine their progression in the tournament.
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."
"Argentina has been warned ahead of this one."
"This group makes for an interesting blend with potential for intense and entertaining soccer."
"This will all be about learning collectively with a view to the 2026 World Cup."
"The 2026 World Cup will be on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S."
"This result will be encouraging for Canada."
Final Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.