Canada put up a strong fight in their rematch against Argentina in the semi-finals of Copa America 2024. However, despite Alphonso Davies and his team’s efforts, they were unable to outshine the skilled “tango dancers.”
Over a month ago, in the first match of Group A, Argentina defeated Canada 2-0 with goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez. In today’s semi-final showdown, Canada came out strong, with their attacks showing excitement and determination. They had early chances, but unfortunately, Jacob Shaffelburg missed the target with two successive shots.
As the game progressed, Argentina found their rhythm and began to dominate. In the 12th minute, Messi and Di Maria had a slick passing combination that ended with a shot just wide of the goal. Soon after, in the 23rd minute, De Paul’s precise pass set up Julian Alvarez to score the opening goal, showcasing his skill in getting past defenders and beating the goalkeeper. Argentine fans were quick to celebrate the lead.
Julian Alvarez successfully maneuvered past Bombito before netting the first goal for Argentina. Following the breakthrough, Argentina displayed an even more impressive performance reminiscent of graceful tango dancers. Despite creating numerous scoring opportunities, players like Di Maria, Messi, and Tagliafico failed to capitalize on them.
A notable missed chance occurred when Messi unexpectedly took a shot with his weaker right foot in the penalty area just before halftime, narrowly missing the target. Despite their dominance, Argentina was almost stunned when Canada came close to leveling the score in injury time. A lack of focus in Argentina’s defense during a throw-in allowed Jonathan David to sneak in a goal from a difficult angle near the net. Fortunately, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez managed to quickly adjust his position and block the shot just in time.
Canadian players are closely monitoring Messi’s movements on the field. Photo: Getty
Coming back from halftime, Canada made an effort to bring more intensity to their offensive strategy but struggled to make precise passes due to a lack of sharpness.
In the 51st minute, Canada gave up another goal. Messi sparked an attack and found himself in a crucial position to redirect Enzo Fernandez’s shot, widening the lead for Argentina.
This marks Messi’s inaugural goal in the Copa America 2024 and his 109th goal playing for Argentina.
Messi and Enzo Fernandez were all smiles as they celebrated Argentina’s second goal against Canada. Despite Canada’s bold and aggressive play, they couldn’t break through Argentina’s solid defense. Coach Lionel Scaloni’s team demonstrated their tactical prowess by controlling the game and securing a 2-0 victory.
In the closing minutes of the match, Tani Oluwaseyi had a couple of opportunities to score for Canada, but his shots were either saved by goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez or missed the target. With the win, Argentina advanced to the final, where they would face the winner of the Uruguay versus Colombia semi-final. Canada, on the other hand, would compete for third place against the losing team of the other semi-final.
The starting lineups for Argentina and Canada were as follows:
Argentina (4-4-2): Emiliano Martinez (GK), Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico (DEF), Di Maria, De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister (MID), Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez (STR).
Canada (4-2-3-1): Maxime Crepeau (GK), Alistair Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Alphonso Davies (DEF), Ismael Kone, Stephen Eustaquio (MID), Richie Laryea, Jonathan David, Jacob Shaffelburg (ATT), Cyle Larin (STR).