Copa America 2023: Argentina vs. Canada - A Clash in Atlanta
As the excitement builds, soccer enthusiasts around the world are eagerly awaiting the kickoff of the Copa America 2023. The tournament will kick off with a thrilling opening match between Argentina and Canada at the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Argentina enters the competition as the pre-tournament favorite, while Canada faces a daunting challenge under the leadership of coach Jesse Marsch.
Anticipation and Expectations
Fans are buzzing with anticipation as Argentina, led by legendary players like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi, aims to assert its dominance on U.S. soil. Argentina's form looks formidable, especially given Brazil's recent dip in performance, which further solidifies Argentina's position as a favorite to win.
On the other hand, Canada's journey to this match has been anything but smooth. The team has experienced mixed results in the lead-up to Copa America, including a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France. This opening match will be a true test of Canada's readiness and resolve as they prepare for bigger ambitions, including the 2026 World Cup on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
Match Details
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 consists of Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promises intense and entertaining soccer. While Argentina is heavily favored to top the group, Canada is focused on competing rigorously with Peru and Chile. This tournament represents a significant learning experience for the Canadian squad as they look ahead to the 2026 World Cup.
Team News
Argentina:
Argentina will miss the services of key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos. However, the team boasts a roster filled with talent and experience. Veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi are expected to play significant roles, complemented by talents such as Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes, who are likely to feature as starters. The potential starting XI for Argentina includes E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, and Di María.
Canada:
Canada is in a transition phase, moving beyond key players like Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson. Emerging talents are stepping up to fill the void. Notable players to watch include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau is expected to be the new No. 1 goalkeeper, while Luc de Fougerolles makes his senior debut. The likely starting XI for Canada includes Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Koné, Eustáquio, Millar; David, and Larin.
Prediction
The opening match is expected to be a tight contest, with Argentina likely to edge out Canada narrowly. A 1-0 victory for Argentina seems to be the most probable outcome, which would still be an encouraging result for Canada. Argentina is expected to top Group A, while Canada's key matches will be against Peru and Chile.
"The match may start tight, but Argentina is expected to win narrowly," said a sports analyst. "This result will be encouraging for Canada as they look ahead to the rest of the tournament."
As the Copa America gets underway, all eyes will be on Atlanta this Thursday. This opening match will offer fans a taste of the intense and entertaining soccer they can expect throughout the tournament. For Canada, it’s a crucial opportunity to gain valuable experience and test their readiness for the challenges that lie ahead.
In conclusion, while Argentina is heavily favored to triumph, Canada’s participation marks the beginning of a journey that holds promise, especially as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup. Soccer enthusiasts worldwide are in for a treat as the Copa America 2023 promises thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.