Messi push Argentina to 2-0 win vs Canada to kick off Copa America

Lionel Messi’s exceptional performance propelled Argentina to a successful start in their Copa America title defense with a 2-0 victory over Canada.

The match, held at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, saw Messi’s form play a crucial role in securing the win despite the challenging playing surface.

Messi’s brilliance was evident as he provided the through ball that led to Julián Álvarez’s goal in the 49th minute.

He later assisted Lautaro Martínez’s goal in the 88th minute, sealing the victory for Argentina. The team, aiming for their third consecutive major title after winning the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup, dominated the second half, outshooting Canada 12-3.

Argentina kick off their Copa América title defense with a win against Canada in the opening game 🇦🇷🏆🌎 pic.twitter.com/hFjFQ5wrEO

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Argentina’s starting lineup included eight players from the 2022 World Cup final victory over France, with Lisandro Martínez, Marcos Acuña, and Leandro Paredes replacing Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico, and Enzo Fernández.

After the game, coach Lionel Scaloni and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez said they were not happy with the grass surface at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which is one of the sites for the 2026 World Cup.

The match also saw Messi set a Copa America record with his 35th appearance, surpassing Chile’s Sergio Livingstone, who played from 1941-53.