Argentina vs Canada predictions for this Copa America fixture. Argentina start their Copa America title defence against Canada in Thursday’s opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Copa America | Group Stage – Jun 21, 2024 at 1am UK at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Don’t Have a BetVictor account? Click below to claim this offer👇
Argentina vs Canada Predictions
Can Argentina’s Dominance Continue Against Copa America Debutants Canada?
Key Stats
– Argentina have won 13 of their last 14 matches, showcasing their formidable form heading into the Copa America.
– Canada have managed just three wins in their last 11 games, highlighting their inconsistency.
– Lionel Messi has netted 108 international goals, underlining his crucial role in Argentina’s attack.
As Argentina gear up to defend their Copa America title, their opening match against Canada promises to be an intriguing clash at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This match marks Canada’s debut in the tournament, providing them with a significant platform to showcase their talents on a larger stage. Given the contrasting trajectories of these two teams, this encounter is expected to highlight both Argentina’s prowess and Canada’s potential.
Match Preview
Argentina, under the stewardship of Lionel Scaloni, have been riding high since their Copa America triumph in 2021, followed by a spectacular World Cup victory in 2022. Their recent form has been nothing short of formidable, boasting 13 wins out of their last 14 matches. This impressive run includes a streak of five consecutive victories, emphasising their dominance and readiness for the tournament.
In their preparatory matches, Argentina demonstrated their defensive solidity with a narrow 1-0 win over Ecuador and showcased their attacking flair in a comprehensive victory over Guatemala. These performances underline their capability to control games and adapt their strategy as required. The squad’s depth, especially with experienced players like Nicolas Otamendi and the ever-influential Lionel Messi, adds to their formidable reputation.
Canada, on the other hand, are entering uncharted waters in the Copa America. Having secured their spot through a playoff win against Trinidad and Tobago, they face a steep challenge. Their recent form has been inconsistent, illustrated by a heavy defeat to the Netherlands and a goalless draw with France. New manager Jesse Marsch will be looking to instil a sense of resilience and tactical discipline as they face the defending champions.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Argentina’s Possible Lineup: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Acuna; Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul; Lionel Messi, Nicolas Gonzalez, Julian Alvarez
Argentina’s lineup reflects a balance of experience and youthful exuberance. The defensive pairing of Otamendi and Romero offers stability, while the midfield trio of Mac Allister, Paredes, and De Paul provides a blend of creativity and defensive cover. Up front, Messi’s presence is, as always, pivotal, supported by the dynamic Gonzalez and Alvarez.
Canada’s Possible Lineup: Maxime Crepeau; Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, Alphonso Davies; Tajon Buchanan, Stephen Eustaquio, Ismael Kone, Liam Millar; Jonathan David, Cyle Larin
Canada’s lineup features several standout names, including Alphonso Davies, whose pace and versatility will be crucial. The defensive setup, led by Crepeau, will need to be alert against Argentina’s potent attack. In midfield, Eustaquio and Kone must orchestrate play and provide support to the forward duo of David and Larin, who are tasked with breaching Argentina’s defence.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield battle will be a critical area where this match could be decided. Argentina’s trio of Mac Allister, Paredes, and De Paul will look to dominate possession and control the tempo. Their ability to transition quickly from defence to attack could overwhelm Canada’s midfield, which will rely heavily on Eustaquio’s leadership and Kone’s energy.
Another key duel will be between Canada’s Alphonso Davies and Argentina’s right-back Nahuel Molina. Davies’ pace and attacking prowess could pose significant challenges, but Molina’s defensive acumen will be vital in neutralising this threat. Additionally, the matchup between Jonathan David and Argentina’s centre-backs Otamendi and Romero will be crucial, as David’s movement and finishing ability could exploit any defensive lapses.
Expected Gameplay and Tactical Analysis
Argentina are likely to adopt a possession-based approach, leveraging their technical superiority to control the game. Their ability to press high and recover the ball quickly will be pivotal in suffocating Canada’s attempts to build from the back. Messi’s role as the creative fulcrum will see him drift across the attacking third, looking to exploit spaces and create opportunities for his teammates.
Canada, under Marsch’s guidance, might opt for a more pragmatic approach. Defensively, they will need to stay compact and disciplined, with Davies and Buchanan providing outlets for quick counter-attacks. Their success will hinge on their ability to withstand Argentina’s pressure and exploit the gaps left by their opponents’ attacking forays.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Argentina’s Strengths:
- Depth and Quality: The squad boasts a blend of experienced campaigners and young talents, offering versatility and options in various positions.
- Defensive Solidity: With five clean sheets in their last six matches, Argentina’s defensive organisation is robust.
- Messi’s Magic: Lionel Messi remains a game-changer, capable of turning matches with his vision, dribbling, and finishing.
Argentina’s Weaknesses:
- Dependence on Messi: While Messi’s presence is a strength, over-reliance on him can be a double-edged sword, particularly if opponents manage to stifle his influence.
- High Press Vulnerability: Teams that can bypass Argentina’s high press might find opportunities to exploit the space behind their advanced lines.
Canada’s Strengths:
- Pace on the Flanks: With players like Davies and Buchanan, Canada can threaten on the counter with speed.
- Defensive Resilience: Despite recent inconsistencies, their ability to hold strong against formidable opponents, as seen against France, is notable.
Canada’s Weaknesses:
- Lack of Experience: This being their Copa America debut, the lack of experience in high-stakes South American competition could be telling.
- Inconsistent Form: Recent performances have been erratic, which could undermine their confidence against top-tier opponents.
Managerial Analysis
Lionel Scaloni’s tenure with Argentina has been marked by success and strategic acumen. His ability to blend youth with experience and his tactical flexibility have been key to Argentina’s recent triumphs. However, his reliance on Messi’s brilliance could be a point of criticism, as it occasionally leads to predictability in their play.
Jesse Marsch, newly appointed as Canada’s head coach, brings enthusiasm and a fresh perspective. His tactical nous and ability to motivate players will be crucial in navigating the challenges of the Copa America. However, his relative inexperience at this level, combined with the pressure of managing a debutant team, could be significant hurdles.
Expected Goals Analysis
Argentina’s expected goals (xG) metrics underline their offensive capabilities, averaging 1.3 goals per game in their World Championship Qualifiers. Their ability to create and convert chances, particularly from inside the box, is a testament to their attacking efficiency. Conversely, Canada’s xG in the CONCACAF Gold Cup suggests a decent attacking output, averaging 2 goals per game, but their defensive frailties, conceding 1.5 goals per game, highlight a potential vulnerability.
Predictions
- Best Bet: Argentina -2 to Win
Argentina’s recent form is nothing short of spectacular, making them strong favourites to secure a decisive victory in this match. Since their World Cup triumph, they have won 13 of their last 14 games, with nine of those victories coming by a margin of at least two goals. This statistic underscores their ability to not only win but to do so convincingly.
Their defence has been particularly impressive, keeping clean sheets in 11 of these matches, which suggests that Canada might struggle to find the net. Argentina’s offensive capabilities, led by the talismanic Lionel Messi, combined with the support from players like Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Gonzalez, are likely to overwhelm Canada. Considering Canada’s inconsistent performances and their recent 4-0 loss to the Netherlands, it is reasonable to expect Argentina to win by at least three goals. Hence, Argentina -2 seems to be the best bet for this match.
- Correct Score Prediction: Argentina 3-0 Canada
Aligning with the expectation of a comfortable victory for Argentina, a 3-0 scoreline reflects their superior attacking and defensive qualities. Argentina’s ability to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities is well documented, as seen in their average of 1.3 goals per game and their impressive tally of 31 goals in their last 14 matches.
Canada’s defence, which has conceded an average of 1.5 goals per game in the CONCACAF Gold Cup, will likely find it challenging to cope with the relentless pressure from Argentina’s forwards. The anticipated attacking trio of Messi, Alvarez, and Gonzalez has the potential to exploit Canada’s defensive weaknesses, leading to a comprehensive 3-0 victory. Moreover, Argentina’s solid backline, which has kept five clean sheets in their last six games, suggests that Canada will struggle to score.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Lionel Messi to Score Anytime
Lionel Messi remains one of the most prolific scorers in international football, with 108 goals for Argentina. His current form, bolstered by his performances in recent friendlies, indicates he is still a potent threat in front of goal. Messi’s role in Argentina’s attack is pivotal, not only as a scorer but also as a creator. His ability to find spaces, execute precise dribbles, and take accurate shots makes him a constant danger to opposing defences.
Against a Canadian side that has shown vulnerabilities in their recent matches, Messi is expected to capitalise on any defensive lapses. His proficiency in set-pieces adds another dimension to his goal-scoring threat, making him a strong candidate to score at any point during the match. Considering his current form and Argentina’s attacking strategy, backing Messi to score anytime is a sound prediction.
- Corner Prediction: Argentina to Win the Corner Count
Argentina’s attacking style and high possession rate naturally lead to a higher number of corners. They average 4.8 corners per game, reflecting their tendency to pressurise opponents and create chances from wide areas. Given their dominance in possession and the expected control of the match, Argentina are likely to win more corners than Canada.
Canada, on the other hand, averages 4 corners per game, and considering their defensive stance against a superior team, they might see even fewer opportunities to earn corners. Argentina’s offensive setup, which includes wingers and full-backs who frequently push forward, supports the likelihood of them winning the corner count. In a match where Argentina are expected to be on the front foot, a total of around 8-10 corners is plausible, with Argentina securing the majority due to their sustained attacking pressure.
- Innovative Market Prediction: Total Team Shots on Target – Argentina Over 5.5
Argentina’s attacking statistics indicate a high propensity for testing the goalkeeper. They average 4.5 shots on target per game, and against a team like Canada, who are expected to be on the defensive, this number could easily increase. Argentina’s frontline, led by Messi, Alvarez, and Gonzalez, is known for their ability to create and convert scoring opportunities.
Canada’s defence has shown susceptibility to conceding multiple shots on target, as evidenced by their recent matches against top-tier teams. The disparity in quality between the two teams suggests that Argentina will dominate the attacking play, resulting in a higher number of shots on target. Predicting over 5.5 shots on target for Argentina is supported by their attacking depth and Canada’s defensive record, making it a strong market to consider.
Top UK Bookies & Best Sign Up Offers
Subscribe To Our Newsletter For Exclusive Tips
Want to have exclusive tips from experts tipsters delivered right into your inbox? Subscribe Now To Our Newsletter. We will never spam, we fully respect your privacy!
