Argentina vs Canada, Copa America Semi-Final Recap: Alvarez and Messi Lead Argentina to Final With 2-0 Victory

Defending champions Argentina secured their spot in the Copa America final with a 2-0 victory over Canada in Tuesday’s semi-final at New Jersey. Goals from Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi sealed the win, setting up a showdown in Florida against either Uruguay or Colombia on Sunday. This final could mark a significant moment for veterans like Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Nicolas Otamendi, who may be eyeing one last shot at glory.

Reflecting on the team’s achievement, Messi shared with TyC Sports, “Let’s savor this moment as a national team, as a collective. Returning to a final and competing for the championship is never easy.” He acknowledged the significance of the occasion, noting, “I’m cherishing every bit of this experience, just like Fideo (Di Maria) and Ota (Otamendi), knowing these could be our final battles.”

Argentina, winners of 15 Copa America titles and frequently finalists in recent editions, faced early challenges from Canada, particularly in the first 20 minutes when Jacob Shaffelburg missed two promising chances. However, Argentina settled into the game, taking the lead in the 22nd minute through Alvarez’s composed finish after a pass from Rodrigo De Paul.

Gradually asserting dominance, Argentina extended their lead in the 51st minute as Messi redirected Enzo Fernandez’s shot into the net, marking his 109th international goal and moving him up the Copa America scoring charts.

Despite a comfortable advantage, Argentina endured tense moments late in the match, with Canada pressing for a goal that would alter the outcome. Ultimately, Canada’s journey to the semi-finals, surpassing expectations and outperforming higher-ranked CONCACAF rivals, ended with praise from midfielder Stephen Eustaquio: “They’re the best team in the world, but we had our chances early on. Scoring then would have changed the game’s narrative. Making it to the Copa America semifinals is a tremendous achievement.”