Lionel Messi’s brilliance was on full display as Argentina kicked off their Copa América campaign with a 2-0 win over Canada on Thursday night. The match, held in the United States, marked the beginning of Argentina’s defense of their title and their quest for a third consecutive major trophy following their triumphs in the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 World Cup.
Messi set up both goals, showcasing his playmaking prowess. In the 49th minute, he delivered a precise through ball that led to Julián Álvarez’s goal. Then, in the 88th minute, he assisted Lautaro Martínez to seal the victory.
This match was historic for Messi, as he set a Copa América record with his 35th appearance, surpassing Chile’s Sergio Livingstone. Messi also extended his record for assists in the tournament to 18.
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The first goal came from a well-coordinated play. After a throw-in, Messi headed a pass to Alexis Mac Allister, who then provided a decisive assist to Álvarez. The young striker capitalized on the opportunity, scoring into an almost empty net.
Messi’s second assist was a classic example of his midfield mastery. He dribbled through the center before passing to Martínez, who confidently scored his 25th international goal.
Messi had several scoring opportunities himself. His best chance came in the 65th minute, but Canada’s goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau made an impressive diving save. Another close call occurred in the 79th minute, when Messi’s chip went wide.
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Despite a hard tackle in the 82nd minute, Messi remained on the field, demonstrating his resilience and determination.
Argentina will next face Chile in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Tuesday, and conclude the group stage against Peru in Miami Gardens, Florida, on June 29. Canada, playing in their first Copa América, will meet Peru on Tuesday in Kansas City, Kansas, and then Chile on June 29 in Orlando, Florida.
The tournament, hosted in 14 U.S. stadiums, includes six teams from North and Central America and the Caribbean, alongside the 10 South American teams. Argentina’s journey to victory has often started slowly, but they’ve proven to be unstoppable, as seen in their previous tournament wins despite initial setbacks.
Under their new coach, Jesse Marsch, Canada had a notable debut. Their best opportunity came in the 43rd minute when Stephen Eustáquio’s header was skillfully saved by Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Messi and Argentina to see if they can continue their winning streak and add another trophy to their collection.
