Argentina 2-0 Canada: Defending Champions Start the Tournament Off with a Bang

The reigning champions Argentina began their Copa América defence last night with a 2-0 win last night over tournament debutants Canada. Goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martínez helped secure the 3 points against a determined Canadian unit. The statistics on paper pointed to a comfortable win for the Albicelestes but perhaps newcomers Canada might cause some upsets in this group.

Feid Brings the Colombian Flair

The opening ceremony featured Colombian artist Feid who performed his hit song "Luna". For those who don't know or don't listen to Reggaetón, Feid is currently one of the biggest names in the genre and the Latin American world. I was delighted to see that, despite being held in the USA, the tournament organisers ensured to respect the dominating Latin roots of the competition, not anglicising the tournament. Feid delivered a jam-packed rendition of his song, bringing the energy and aptly setting the tone for the tournament ahead.

We will Never Tire of Messi Magic

Unsurprisingly, Lionel Messi led the line extremely well for Argentina and was integral in his sides build up play. The captain ended the match with just the 1 assist, providing the final pass to substitute Lautaro Martínez to seal the 3 points. However, on another day Messi could've had a hatful of goals. La Pulga ended the match with an xGI of 1.71 which included 2 big chances missed, rather out of character for the Goat!

He was everywhere in his sides' attacking build-up play, producing 6 key passes, creating 5 big chances and completing 39/44 of his passes for a pass completion rate of 89%. Messi won't panic that he didn't score in the first game, he knows it is all about the team first.

Canada will not Turn Over Easily

On paper it appeared that Argentina dominated the game, of which they did for large periods of the match. In theory, the statistics support this notion as per the table below:

Yet, Canada showed real character and did cause Argentina problems on the counter-attack. David, Eustaquio and Buchanan all had superb chances to snatch a goal to produce a nervy game for the Argentines. Up against Peru next, followed by Chile, I could see Canada securing at least 3 points across the two games. Canadian fans should be encouraged by their nation's valiant debut performance. Their side certainly will not be the whipping boys of the group by any means.

Argentina Have Set the Bar, Now the Others Must Follow

Yesterday was a professional performance from the Albicelestes, now the other tournament big hitters must respond to keep up with them. Next in action is expected to qualify from Group A Chile versus an out of sorts Peru. Chile will want to ensure they win the easiest game of the group with relative conviction so Argentina will keep looking over their shoulder.

Additionally, the young and exciting Ecuador start their campaign in Group B against a poor Venezuela side. I've put Ecuador as group winners so I'm expecting a solid performance from La Tricolor. Copa América has kicked off in style and I'm looking forward to seeing how it unravels!