Defending champion Argentina secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Canada on Tuesday night to book their place in the Copa America 2024 final. The match, played at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saw Argentina dominate possession but face a determined Canadian side.
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Clinical First Half from Argentina
Argentina took the lead in the 22nd minute through a well-executed counter-attack. Rodrigo De Paul found Julian Alvarez with a perfectly weighted pass, splitting the Canadian defense. Alvarez kept his composure, slotting the ball past goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau with a nutmeg finish.
Lionel Messi, Argentina’s captain, was heavily involved in the team’s attacking plays but was yet to find the net himself. Argentina continued to press for a second goal, with Angel Di Maria and Lautaro Martinez creating several chances. However, Canada’s defense held firm, with Alistair Johnston making some crucial tackles.
Scrappy Second Half with Messi Magic
The second half was a tighter affair, with Canada pushing for an equalizer. The slow pitch conditions, caused by a sandy and moist surface, hampered both teams’ passing game. Canada had a few promising opportunities, but they lacked the cutting edge to truly threaten Emiliano Martinez in the Argentina goal.
The game seemed destined to remain 1-0 until the 51st minute when Messi finally got on the scoresheet. Enzo Fernandez unleashed a shot from outside the box, and the ball deflected off Messi into the net. After a VAR check for a possible offside, the goal was awarded, giving Argentina a crucial two-goal cushion.
Argentina Holds On for Final Berth
With a comfortable lead, Argentina managed the tempo of the game in the closing stages. Coach Lionel Scaloni made some substitutions to preserve energy for the final, bringing on Nicolas Gonzalez and Exequiel Palacios for Di Maria and Alexis Mac Allister. Canada pressed for a consolation goal in the dying minutes but failed to convert their chances.
The final whistle blew, and Argentina secured their place in the Copa America final. They will now await the winner of the other semifinal clash between Colombia and Uruguay.
Messi Reaches International Goalscoring Milestone
Despite not scoring from open play, Messi’s goal against Canada was a significant one. It marked his 109th international goal for Argentina, making him the second-highest scorer in men’s international football history, surpassing Iranian legend Ali Daei.