Argentina wins debut match in Copa América, propelled by Lionel Messi's performance against Canada
Lionel Messi shattered a 70-year-old record by stepping onto the pitch for his 35th Copa América game, and he was instrumental in Argentina's goals, scored by Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
Canada, making its debut in this expanded iteration of the Copa América, faced a significant uphill battle against the 15-time champions. However, they missed out on numerous opportunities to score throughout the game.
The first half was full of action, with over 70,000 spectators witnessing close calls. Angel Di Maria couldn't capitalize on a one-on-one situation as Argentina counter-attacked from a corner, while Alexis Mac Allister's header was saved by Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crepéau.
Canada's most significant chance in the first half fell to Stephen Eustaquio, but his header was stopped by Emi Martinez before Alphonso Davies missed the follow-up.
It was Argentina that managed to score the first goal early in the second half. Messi sent a brilliant pass to Mac Allister, although the Liverpool midfielder couldn't get a shot off, he set up Alvarez for the opening goal.
Messi had two opportunities to score himself when he found himself behind Canada's defense, but Crepeau and Derek Cornelius' defensive efforts thwarted him on the first attempt, and his shot went wide on the second.
Jonathan David squandered an open header - arguably Canada's best chance of the game - between Messi's two breakaways, before Argentina sealed the deal with a stunning team effort.
The team demonstrating exceptional build-up play allowed Messi to find Martinez, who slotting a shot between Crepeau's legs to make it 2-0.
Argentina is currently on an unbeaten streak of nine games in the Copa América, having won the 2021 tournament as well as their third-place playoff against Chile in 2019. They have upcoming group-stage matches against Chile and then Peru.
A victory in this year's competition would mark Argentina's third consecutive trophy in major tournaments, having won the World Cup in 2022.
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Despite Canada's efforts, they were unable to match Argentina's football prowess, with Lionel Messi playing a pivotal role.In the excitement of Argentina's second goal, fans couldn't help but cheer for their beloved football team.
