The Copa America tournament kicked off on Thursday with the success of the defending Argentine team, as the world champion defeated Canada 2-0 in the first match in Atlanta.
In the 48th South American Continental Championship – which is being held in the United States for the second time – in addition to the ten South American teams, six teams from the CONCACAF region participate.
The opening match was played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, whose pitch presented serious challenges for the teams.
Emiliano Martinez, the Argentine national team goalkeeper, said after the referee’s whistle: “The stadium was a disaster.” “The ball bounced on him as if there were jokes in it.” “They have to improve their quality, otherwise the Copa America will not be treated at the same level as the European Championship.”
In the match, which was held in front of 70,564 spectators, the Argentines played better throughout the match, but they were unable to score in the first half. But at the start of the second half, they took the lead quickly through Julian Alvarez, and then Lautaro Martinez settled the game in the second half. Argentine star Lionel Messi gained immortal merits in success, as he provided the basic pass before the first goal to Alexis McAllister, who exploded in front of the goal, after which Alvarez jumped and then made the decisive pass. For the second.
First round result:
Group:
Argentina – Canada 2-0 (0-0)
Cover photo:
epa11427064 Ismael Kone of Canada (left) chases while Lionel Messi of Argentina (right) controls the ball during the first half of the 2024 Copa America Group A soccer match between Argentina and Canada, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, June 20, 2024 EPA/Eric S. Lesser
