Argentina vs Canada Prediction Copa América 2024

⚽ Football Copa América 2024 Match Preview

⏰ 21 June 2024 - 04:00 GMT +1

🏟 Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)

Argentina (FIFA Rank: #1) enter the 2024 Copa América as reigning champions and World Cup holders, looking to extend their dominance on the international stage. Under Lionel Scaloni's leadership, the Albiceleste have been nearly unstoppable, losing just once in their last 45 matches (W33, D11) since July 2019. They come into this tournament opener on the back of seven straight unbeaten games in Copa América (W6, D1), showcasing their formidable form in continental competitions.

The possible final Copa América appearance of Lionel Messi adds extra significance to Argentina's campaign. The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner will be eager to lead his team to back-to-back titles, further cementing his legacy. Argentina's strong record against North American opposition, having not lost to a team from the region since 2004, bodes well for their opening fixture.

Canada, making their Copa América debut, face a daunting task in their tournament opener. New coach Jesse Marsch is yet to see his side score a goal in his short tenure (D1, L1), although those games came against top-ten FIFA ranked nations. The Canadians will be hoping to use this experience as preparation for co-hosting the upcoming World Cup.

Despite the gulf in rankings and experience, Canada boast some notable talent in their squad. Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies and Lille's Jonathan David provide a spark of quality that could trouble the Argentine defense. However, the step up in competition from their qualifying win against Trinidad & Tobago to facing the world champions is significant.

Where to watch?

📺 Argentina vs Canada Live Stream on TV

📋 Players to watch: Julián Álvarez has established himself as a key player for Argentina since the last Copa América, scoring four goals in seven World Cup appearances. For Canada, Cyle Larin will be looking to replicate his crucial goal in the play-off game that secured their tournament berth.

⚡ Match Facts: Hot stat: Argentina have scored before half-time in their last eight Copa América tournament games.

💡 Prediction: While Canada will be eager to make a statement in their Copa América debut, Argentina's quality and experience at this level should prove too much. Expect the world champions to control possession and create numerous chances, with their attacking prowess likely to overwhelm Canada's defense. The first half could be crucial, given Argentina's tendency to score early in recent Copa América matches.

Betting tips: Consider Argentina to win and Over 2.5 goals, as the Albiceleste's attacking firepower should shine through. Argentina to score in the first half also looks promising given their recent tournament history. Julián Álvarez as an anytime goalscorer could offer value, while Under 0.5 goals for Canada might be worth considering given their recent scoring struggles.