Messi’s Last Dance? Argentina vs. Canada Opens Historic 2024 Copa America
The 2024 Copa America, the oldest international soccer tournament in the world, will begin tonight in Atlanta, Georgia Led by Lionel Messi, Argentina will look to start the tournament off with a win against Canada in the opening game. The 108-year-old tournament will feature more teams than it ever has, setting up for an exciting and electric spectacle.
Six North American teams and ten South American teams will be competing for the trophy. In preparation for the 2026 World Cup, the Copa America will be played in the US across 14 stadiums and 10 states. Notable cities include Miami, Dallas, Las Vegas, and Charlotte.
| GROUP A | GROUP B | GROUP C | Group D |
| Argentina | Mexico | USA | Brazil |
| Peru | Ecuador | Uruguay | Colombia |
| Chile | Venezuela | Panama | Paraguay |
| Canada | Jamaica | Bolivia | Costa Rica |
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Argentina Vs. Canada Preview – Copa America Kicks Off
Argentina and Canada will begin the 2024 Copa America at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Headlining Argentina is veteran Inter-Miami forward Lionel Messi. This season with Miami, Messi scored 13 goals in 18 league games. While Messi is getting older, he’s shown little to no signs of slowing down. The veteran’s international tournament experience should greatly help Argentina make a push for the trophy.
Forward Cyle Larin is the player to watch for in Canada. Playing for Mallorca of La Liga in Spain, Larin scored three goals in 35 matches this season. However, Larin is electric on the international stage, scoring 14 goals in 13 matches for Canada in 2021.
With two teams led by dynamic forwards, this match will kick off an exceptional Copa America.
Messi Looks to Cement His International Legacy
After winning the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup, Messi will look to strengthen his already legendary legacy in this year’s tournament, hoping to bring Argentina another trophy. Argentina is currently tied with Uruguay for the most trophies in Copa America history, with 15.
At 36 years old, Messi is at the tail end of his football career, and many speculate this could be his last major international tournament. By the time the 2024 World Cup arrives, Messi will be 39, and “Because of age it’ll be difficult to make 2026,” Messi told the Argentine publication Diario Olé. “I love playing football and while I feel like I’m in good shape and enjoying this, I’m going to keep at it. It seems like a long time until the next World Cup, but it depends on how my career is going.”
While the Inter Miami Forward hasn’t completely ruled out playing in the 2026 World Cup, fans should appreciate this year’s Copa America, as it may be the last time we see the soccer icon on the international stage. It’s safe to say Argentina fans are taking in every moment, and can’t wait for the tournament to start.
Vinícius Júnior Ballon d’Or Campaign
After helping Real Madrid win La Liga and the Champions League, Vini Jr is the favorite to win the Ballon d’Or. With Neymar injured, the Real Madrid forward will be headlining the Brazil squad, hoping to bring home its 10th trophy. Many believe a stellar tournament performance will push him over the edge to receive the touted award.
