Lionel Messi, the legendary eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient who will turn 37 on Monday, captains Argentina in what is likely his last Copa America.
In a historic moment on Thursday, Messi became the most-capped player in Copa America history, marking his 35th appearance in the tournament. World champions Argentina started their defense of the Copa America title with a 2-0 win against Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, witnessed by a crowd of 70,564. Although Julian Alvarez broke the deadlock in the 49th minute, Argentina’s victory was not secured until Lautaro Martinez sealed the win with a goal in the 88th minute.
The game saw Canada, ranked 48th globally, put up a commendable fight against the 15-time Copa America champions, thanks in part to some spectacular saves by goalkeeper Max Crepeau and some uncharacteristic missed chances by Messi.
Alvarez, chosen over Lautaro to partner Messi up front, had an early opportunity when he intercepted an attempted clearance by Ismael Kone. However, a heavy touch allowed Crepeau to save the ball. Messi, making his seventh Copa America appearance, nearly scored himself but missed with an angled shot just wide of the post.
Despite Argentina’s offensive pressure, Canada’s team, led by coach Jesse Marsch, managed to create a few opportunities. Alphonso Davies and Liam Millar saw their shots blocked, and Tajon Buchanan sent a close effort wide in the 30th minute.
The first significant save came in the 40th minute when Crepeau denied Alexis Mac Allister’s header from an Angel Di Maria cross. Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, also played a crucial role, saving a close-range header from Stephen Eustaquio to keep the scoreline even at halftime.
Argentina quickly took the lead in the second half. Just four minutes in, Messi’s pass found Mac Allister, who was fouled by Crepeau. Before the referee could whistle for a penalty, Alvarez pounced on the loose ball to score. Shortly after, Alvarez had another chance but was thwarted by a diving Crepeau.
Canada responded with a more aggressive 4-3-3 formation, bringing on winger Jacob Shaffelburg, which increased the pressure on the Argentine defense. However, Argentina almost capitalized on a counter-attack when Martinez’s long pass found Messi, who missed two clear opportunities to extend the lead.
In the closing stages, Crepeau continued to frustrate the Argentine attack, making key saves against substitute Lautaro. But with two minutes left in normal time, Messi delivered another brilliant pass, and Lautaro Martinez slipped past Crepeau to make it 2-0, securing Argentina’s victory.
With this win, Messi and Argentina started their Copa America campaign on a high note, aiming to defend their title successfully.
