Argentina and Canada meet in a rematch of the Copa America 2024 opener, but this time it’s a knockout encounter with a spot in the final on the line. Argentina took down Canada 2-0 in the group stage game but the score was tied 0-0 until the 49th minute. Both teams have made it to this semifinal round after winning the previous contest on penalties. Argentina eliminated Ecuador on spot kicks after giving up a late equalizer in stoppage time, while Canada was able to hold its nerve against Venezuela.
Here’s what you need to know for the match, with odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Argentina v. Canada
Date: Tuesday, July 9
Time: 8 p.m. ET
TV channel: FS1, Univision
Livestream: fuboTV, TUDN
Moneyline odds
Argentina: -300
Draw: +400
Canada: +950
Odds to advance
Argentina: -650
Canada: +425
Moneyline pick: Argentina -300
Pick to advance: Argentina -650
Both teams are familiar with each other in this competition, which makes tactical adjustments somewhat moot. Canada has been a stellar defensive side, allowing just three goals in the run of play. Argentina has scored at least once in each Copa America match so far, which means Canada will likely have to find a goal from somewhere to extend this match. Just like the quarterfinal round, this clash would go directly to penalties if the teams are tied after regular time.
Lionel Messi played through his injury in the quarterfinal and is expected to start for Argentina in Tuesday’s semifinal. Canada is likely to be without Tajon Buchanan, who is still recovering from surgery after suffering a broken tibia. Even though Buchanan was seen at training, it’s hard to imagine him immediately stepping back into action for a clash with high stakes.
Canada is playing with house money at this point, as no one expected Jesse Marsch’s squad to reach the semifinal. Argentina has pressure but not nearly to the extent it did three years ago in this competition. Even if Canada does put up a solid fight like it did in the group stage game, I think Argentina’s superior talent and attacking ability eventually wins out. Give me Messi and the boys to get this done and advance to yet another final in a major competition.