Argentina 2-0 Canada: Argentina open Copa America title defence with routine win

The 2024 Copa América commenced with defending champions Argentina securing a 2-0 victory against tournament newcomers Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.

Argentina started the match strongly, with Leandro Paredes narrowly missing a long-range attempt that grazed over Maxime Crepeau's crossbar. Crepeau was called into action again soon after, rushing out of his goal to deny Angel Di Maria's one-on-one opportunity.

Despite a slow start, Canada had a chance to break the deadlock when Tajon Buchanan's shot veered wide of the target. Stephen Eustaquio forced Emiliano Martinez into a close-range save, but Alphonso Davies sent the rebound soaring into the stands.

However, Argentina, riding a seven-match unbeaten streak in the Copa América, only needed four minutes into the second half to take the lead. Lionel Messi's precise pass led to a collision between Alexis Mac Allister and Crepeau, allowing Julian Alvarez to score into an empty net.

Argentina nearly extended their lead moments later, but Crepeau made a crucial save to deny the Manchester City forward. As Argentina asserted their dominance, Crepeau once again thwarted Messi's attempts.

In an uncharacteristic move, Messi squandered a golden opportunity to seal the game by lofting the ball over Crepeau's body but missing the target.

Nevertheless, the star of Inter Miami redeemed himself in the 88th minute by providing an assist for substitute Lautaro Martinez to score, marking his record-breaking 35th appearance in Copa America.

The triumph signifies that Argentina has only lost two out of their last 55 matches, and Lionel Scaloni's team will have five days to recover before facing Chile on Wednesday.

On the other hand, Canada's defeat means they are still in search of their first-ever victory against La Albiceleste, and they now need a positive result in their upcoming match against Peru to have a chance of advancing to the quarterfinals.