Argentina wins the first match of the 48th edition of the oldest national team tournament in the world. Lionel Messi breaks another record during his extraordinary career. Featured Julián Álvarez scoring his first goal in the CONMEBOL Copa América. Leo Messi breaks the record for the most games played in the world’s oldest national team tournament.
Match summary
At a sold-out Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, Colombian artist Feid kicked off the party that is the 48th edition of the CONMEBOL Copa America™, just before the opening match between the defending champions Argentina and the debutants of the Canada tournament.
The first half of the match continued the party atmosphere. In the 8th minute, Di Maria grabbed a loose ball after a Canadian corner kick and took it from his own half into the Canadian penalty area, where goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau made a brilliant one-on-one save to deny Argentina scored the first goal of the tournament.
Then, in the 43rd minute, Canada’s best chance so far arrived. Cyle Larin threw a beautiful cross to Stephan Eustaquio, who was waiting in the area. The Canadian vice-captain headed the ball into the goal with impressive power, but Emiliano Martinez equalized Crepeau’s save with his fantastic save, ensuring both teams went into half-time goalless.
The fireworks continued in the second half as Julián Álvarez opened the scoring thanks to a pass from Alexis Mac Allister in the Canadian box, giving the Albiceleste a 1-0 lead. It was a record-breaking day for the Argentine players.
Leo Messi broke the record for most appearances in the competition when Alvarez scored his first goal in the CONMEBOL Copa America™ and the first goal of the 2024 edition of the tournament. Lionel Messi came close to doubling his lead when he tried to dribble past Crepeau during a counterattack, but heroic defending by Derek Cornelius kept the world champion off the scoreboard.
Towards the end of the match, Canada began to intensify its attacks in search of an equalizer, but it was not possible. Lionel Messi found Lautaro Martinez with a huge assist in the 88th minute and the Inter striker slotted home to close out the win. For those in blue and white it was a celebration in Atlanta, Georgia and Buenos Aires. A win for the reigning champions to kick off the tournament.
What’s the next step?
Argentina continues its Group A campaign against Chile on Tuesday, June 25 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Meanwhile, Canada will play its second match in the CONMEBOL Copa America™ against Peru on Tuesday, June 25 at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City, Kansas.
Peru and Chile complete the first round of Group A matches Friday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
