Summary:
The Copa America is set to kick off with a thrilling opener between Argentina and Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta this Thursday. Soccer fans around the globe eagerly await this high-stakes tournament, with Argentina entering as the pre-tournament favorite.
Jesse Marsch's Canadian team faces a significant challenge right out of the gate. Canada's recent form has been inconsistent, featuring a defeat against the Netherlands and a draw against France. This match will serve as a critical test of Canada's readiness and aspirations on the international stage. Meanwhile, Argentina aims to assert its dominance on U.S. soil, especially given Brazil's recent dip in form which has bolstered Argentina's position as the favorite.
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 features Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, with matches promising to deliver intense and entertaining soccer. While Argentina is the clear favorite to top the group, Canada is gearing up to compete fiercely with Peru and Chile. This tournament is especially significant for Canada as it represents a key learning experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the U.S.
Team News:
Argentina:
Argentina will miss key players like Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos due to injuries. However, the team is bolstered by veterans like Lionel Messi, Ángel Di María, and Nicolás Otamendi, who are expected to play major roles. Central midfield stalwarts Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes are likely to start, providing the team with stability and creativity.
Possible Argentina XI: E. Martínez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martínez, Acuña; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Álvarez, Messi, Di María.
Canada:
Canada is transitioning away from relying on older players such as Milan Borjan, Lucas Cavallini, and Atiba Hutchinson, bringing in fresh faces and emerging talents. Key players for Canada include Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Tajon Buchanan, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustáquio. Maxime Crepeau will don the gloves as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, while 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 match is expected to start on a tight note but likely end in Argentina's favor. A narrow victory for Argentina seems probable, which would still be an encouraging outcome for Canada as they look to gauge and build their competitive edge. Argentina is projected to top the group, but Canada's key matches will be against Peru and Chile.
Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.
Quotes:
"Copa America gets underway when Argentina and Canada meet in Atlanta on Thursday."
"This will be Canada's first competitive test."
"Brazil's post-World Cup dip in form suggests that Argentina are heavy favorites to win on U.S. soil."
"Argentina has been warned ahead of this one."
"This group makes for an interesting blend with potential for intense and entertaining soccer."
"This will all be about learning collectively with a view to the 2026 World Cup."
"The 2026 World Cup will be on home soil shared across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S."
"This result will be encouraging for Canada."
Pick: Argentina 1, Canada 0.