Copa America Kicks Off with Argentina vs. Canada Clash in Atlanta

On June 20th, the highly anticipated Copa America 2024 tournament will commence with the clash between Argentina and Canada at 8 p.m. ET in Atlanta. Lionel Messi's squad, the reigning FIFA 2022 World Cup champions, enters the tournament as the favorites. This match marks Canada's first competitive test, and they are eager to prove themselves against the formidable Argentine team.

Key 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 includes Argentina, Canada, Peru, and Chile, promises a captivating blend of competitive soccer. With Peru and Chile as familiar opponents for Argentina, the matches in this group are anticipated to be intense and entertaining. Canada, under the guidance of Jesse Marsch, aims to gain valuable experience and lay the groundwork for the 2026 World Cup, which they will co-host with Mexico and the United States.

Team News

Argentina:

While Paulo Dybala, Juan Foyth, and Lucas Ocampos are absent, the Argentine squad is led by veterans Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Nicolas Otamendi. The experience of these players is expected to be pivotal, supported by midfielders Rodrigo de Paul and Leandro Paredes in the starting lineup.

Possible Argentina Starting XI: E. Martinez; Montiel, Romero, L. Martinez, Acuna; De Paul, Paredes, Lo Celso; Alvarez, Messi, Di Maria.

Canadá

Canada's squad features promising talents like Jonathan David, Cyle Larin, Alphonso Davies, and Stephen Eustaquio. With the emergence of Maxime Crepeau as the new No. 1 goalkeeper, and the addition of England-born Luc de Fougerolles, Canada is set to field a competitive lineup.

Possible Canada Starting XI: Crepeau; Johnstone, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Buchanan, Kone, Eustaquio, Millar; David, Larin.

Match Prediction

The encounter is expected to start with a closely contested battle, culminating in a narrow victory for Argentina. However, Canada is poised to deliver a commendable performance, setting the stage for an intriguing tournament. While Argentina is favored to clinch the group, Canada's fate will depend on their matchups against Peru and Chile. Prediction: Argentina 1, Canada 0.