Argentina has secured a spot in the 2024 Copa América final with a 2-0 victory over Canada on Tuesday.
The match at MetLife Stadium started slowly and methodically, reflecting the tense atmosphere. Argentina dominated possession as expected, but Canada was up for the challenge, creating three significant chances in the first 20 minutes. Breakout star Jacob Shaffelburg missed two of the best opportunities, scuffing his shots wide.
Argentina capitalized on a single defensive lapse from Canada. Canada’s center-backs were too far apart, and a brilliant ball from Rodrigo De Paul found Julian Alvarez, who slipped it under Maxime Crepeau.
Lionel Messi, still seeking his debut goal of the tournament, was lively but couldn’t find the target in the first half. Canada also struggled to finish their attacks effectively.
Just six minutes into the 2nd half, Lionel Messi finally broke his tournament drought, smartly flicking the ball past a diving Crepeau to make it 2-0.
Canada continued to fight for control in midfield, but Argentina’s experience and composure showed why they are the reigning Copa and World Cup champions. The match took a turn for the worse for Canada when captain Alphonso Davies was forced off with an ankle injury after a collision with Gonzalo Montiel.
Despite the 2-0 lead being considered a precarious scoreline in football, Argentina’s defense held strong, and Canada’s substitutes couldn’t break through. Argentina will now face either Colombia or Uruguay in the final, aiming for their second consecutive Copa América title.
Argentina player ratings
GK: Emiliano Martínez – 6/10
RB: Gonzalo Montiel – 6/10
CB: Cristian Romero – 6/10
CB: Lisandro Martínez – 6/10
LB: Nicolas Tagliafico – 5/10
CM: Rodrigo De Paul – 6/10
CM: Enzo Fernandez – 6/10
CM: Alexis Mac Allister – 6/10
RW: Angel Di Maria – 5/10
ST: Julian Alvarez – 7/10
LW: Lionel Messi – 7/10
SUB: Nicolas Otamendi – 5/10
SUB: Nahuel Molina – 5/10
SUB: Lautaro Martinez – 5/10
SUB: Nicolas Gonzalez – 5/10
SUB: Exequiel Palacios – 5/10
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