Summary:
The highly anticipated Copa America kicks off this Thursday with a thrilling match between Argentina and Canada at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Argentina enters the tournament as the pre-tournament favorite, and fans are eagerly awaiting to see if they can live up to that billing. The match against Jesse Marsch's Canadian team is set to be a significant challenge for both sides, providing an excellent early test for Canada’s readiness and Argentina’s dominance on U.S. soil.
While Canada has had mixed results in the lead-up to the Copa America, suffering a defeat against the Netherlands and managing a draw against France, they are aiming to use this tournament as a learning experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Brazil's recent dip in form has bolstered Argentina's position as the frontrunner. With key veterans and emerging talents, Argentina hopes to take full advantage of their current momentum.
How to Watch and Odds:
- Date: Thursday, June 20
- Time: 8 p.m. ET
- Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.
- TV: FS1, Univision, TUDN
- Live Stream: Fubo (try for free)
- Odds: Argentina -333; Draw +400; Canada +900
Group A Overview:
Group A, which includes Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promises to deliver intense and entertaining soccer. With Argentina as the group favorite, much attention will be on how Canada competes against Peru and Chile. This group phase provides Canada with an invaluable experience leading up to their role as co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup.
Team News:
Argentina:
Argentina will be missing some key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, they will rely heavily on their experienced core including Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi. Key midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are expected to start, maintaining the team's strategic stability.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is currently transitioning beyond long-time stalwarts such as Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, bringing in new talents to spearhead the team. Key players like Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio are poised to make significant impacts. Notably, Maxime Crepeau will assume the role of the No. 1 goalkeeper, and defender Luc de Fougerolles is set to make his senior debut.
Possible Canada XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, Larin.
Prediction:
The clash between Argentina and Canada is expected to start tightly contested. However, despite a strong showing from Canada, Argentina is anticipated to secure a narrow victory. A single goal might decide the match, setting the tone for both teams’ progress in the tournament.
While Argentina is likely to top Group A, Canada’s pivotal matches will be against Peru and Chile. These fixtures will provide Canada with the challenge and learning opportunities they need as they gear up for the World Cup on home soil.
Quotes:
"Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday," signals the beginning of an exciting tournament. For Canada, "this will be Canada's first competitive test" as they build towards the future. With "Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form," Argentina steps into the tournament as "heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil."
"This result will be encouraging for Canada" regardless of the score, highlighting their focus on growth and preparation for 2026. In conclusion, the prediction leaves us with, “Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0,” a testament to Argentina's slight edge while acknowledging Canada's potential to learn and grow from this experience.