Lionel Messi and Argentina will look to continue their incredible run of success at Copa America 2024, where their campaign against Canada begins at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The holders battled for Copa 2021 glory, ending Messi’s long wait for a major international honor. The Albiceleste followed that up memorably by lifting the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Throw in a 2022 Finalissima triumph over European champions Italy and an unbeaten start to 2026 World Cup qualification – including a historic victory over Brazil at the Maracana – and it adds up to a dazzling golden era under Lionel Scaloni.
It’s also a tall order for Canada and its new boss, Jesse Marsch, who has to hope all his star names are playing at their best.
Team news
Lionel Scaloni’s side have made a slight change in recent weeks, opting for a 4-4-2 formation with Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez up front. The Inter Milan star is set to push Julian Alvarez out of the starting line-up, while Leandro Paredes is expected to come into midfield.
Lisandro Martinez had his fair share of injuries for Manchester United in 2023/24 but returned for the FA Cup final and started both warm-ups.
Since Jesse Marsch took charge of the Canadian national team, they have used a 4-4-2 formation with Orlando City’s Cyle Larin and Jonathan David leading the attack.
Inter Milan’s Tajon Buchanan was used on the right and Derek Cornelius led from central defence.
Argentina : (4-4-2): Martinez (GK) — Molina, Romero, Martinez, Tagliafico — De Paul, Fernandez, Paredes, Mac Allister — Messi, Martinez.
Canada (4-4-2): Crepeau (GK) — Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davis — Buchanan, Kone, Eustaquio, Millar — Larin, David.
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