History in the Making for Canada
Canada, newcomers to the Copa America stage, face a crucial match against Chile on Sunday at the Inter & Co Stadium in Florida. Both teams are vying for a spot in the quarter-finals, with Canada needing just a win to secure their place in history.
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Canada’s Upward Trajectory
Coached by Jesse Marsch, Canada earned their first-ever Copa America victory on Wednesday with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Peru. Jonathan David, celebrating his 50th international cap, scored the decisive goal in the stifling heat. This win follows a string of positive performances under Marsch, despite earlier losses to the Netherlands and France in friendlies, and a defeat to Argentina in the group stage.
Canada’s Path to the Knockout Stage
Currently sitting second in Group A and needs a win to guarantee a spot in the next round. A draw could also suffice, depending on the outcome of the match between Peru and group leaders Argentina.
Two-Time Champions Face Upheaval
Chile, two-time Copa America champions (2015 and 2016), are facing a different reality. With only one point from their opening two matches, they risk being eliminated from the group stage for the first time since 2004. Coach Ricardo Gareca’s squad needs a victory over Canada and a favorable result in the Argentina-Peru match to secure a top-two finish.
Chile’s Struggles and Potential
La Roja, as Chile is known, has yet to score a goal in the tournament. This lack of firepower is a stark contrast to their earlier performances under Gareca, where they netted eight goals in their first three international matches this year.
Key Players and Lineup Speculations
Canada’s coaching staff might consider changes after their win over Peru. Defenders Derek Cornelius and Kamal Miller could vie for a starting spot, while Richie Laryea’s performance might influence the positioning of Alphonso Davies. Up front, the experienced duo of Cyle Larin and Jonathan David is likely to continue their attacking partnership, with Tajon Buchanan or Jacob Shaffelburg potentially replacing Liam Millar on the wing.
For Chile, Ben Brereton Diaz is pushing for a starting position alongside veteran Alexis Sanchez. Midfielder Erick Pulgar walks a tightrope, at risk of suspension with another yellow card, but is expected to start alongside either Rodrigo Echeverria or Marcelino Nunez.
Canada (Possible Starting Lineup): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Miller, Laryea; Osorio, Eustaquio; Buchanan, David, Davies; Larin
Chile (Possible Starting Lineup): Bravo; Isla, Lichnovsky, Diaz, Suazo; Nunez, Pulgar; Osorio, Sanchez, Brereton Diaz; Vargas
This match promises an exciting encounter with Canada seeking a historic qualification and Chile desperate to avoid an early exit.