Argentina vs Canada PREVIEW, Copa America 2024: Can Lionel Messi again win it for La Albiceleste?

Defending champions Argentina will kick off their campaign of Copa America facing Canada in the tournament opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Argentina defeated Brazil in the 2021 Copa America by a single-goal margin to win the tournament for the first time since 1993. Lionel Scaloni's side have been in dominating form since winning the World Cup 2022. Argentina beat Ecuador and Guatemala in the two warm-up fixtures completing their preparations for Copa America 2024. 

Canada are set to make their Copa America debut after coming through a playoff against Trinidad and Tobago and securing qualification to participate as one of the six CONCACAF teams in the competition. Canada will have a good opportunity to face some top quality teams as they look to solidify their side more before 2026 World Cup.

La Albiceleste will be without the services of Valentin Barco, Leonardo Balerdi and Angel Correa as manager Lionel Scaloni declared the names of 26 man squad. Argentina strength depends on their strong mid field apart from their front line comprising of Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes  and Rodrigo De Paul.

As for Canada their hopes mainly rely on their standout players Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David both with sheer speed and control could be a surprise to watch.

Argentina under Lionel Messi is a different class and they should start their title defence with a solid win.