The stage is set for another potential chapter in Lionel Messi’s international fairytale as Argentina booked their place in the Copa America final with a convincing 2-0 victory over Canada.
The 37-year-old Messi, playing for Inter Miami, catalyzed Argentina’s win. He doubled their lead six minutes into the second half with a trademark deflection, sending Enzo Fernandez’s effort from midfield past Canada’s goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau. This goal marked another milestone for Messi, solidifying his position as the second-highest international goalscorer of all time.
Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez opened the scoring for Argentina in the first half, latching onto a pinpoint pass from Atletico Madrid’s Rodrigo de Paul and converting from close range. This goal visibly rattled Canada, who despite entering the tournament ranked 48th in the world, had impressed throughout the group stages.
The win marks Argentina’s sixth Copa America final appearance in the last eight editions, a testament to their enduring dominance in South American football. However, the victory was tinged with bittersweet emotions as it potentially marked the final international appearance for Angel Di Maria. The veteran winger had previously announced his retirement from international duty following the final.
Messi’s own future with Argentina also appears uncertain. While his on-field leadership remains irreplaceable, his post-match comments hinted at a possible international retirement. “Let’s enjoy what we are experiencing,” he told TyC Sports. “These are the last battles,” he added, echoing Di Maria’s sentiment.
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Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni, however, expressed his desire to keep both Messi and Di Maria in the fold. “We will never close the door on Leo,” he declared, acknowledging Messi’s autonomy but leaving the door open for his continued participation.
Canada, despite the loss, can hold their heads high. They impressed throughout the tournament, exceeding expectations in their Copa America debut. Their best chance to score fell to young MLS winger Jacob Shaffelburg in the early stages, but his effort went wide. Argentina’s relentless pressure after Alvarez’s goal ultimately proved too much for the Canadians to handle.
While Jonathan David had a chance to pull one back for Canada in first-half stoppage time, his shot went straight at Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez. Canada will now face the loser of the Uruguay vs. Colombia semi-final in the third-place play-off on Sunday, a chance to end their historic Copa America run on a high note.
Head coach Jesse Marsch, while disappointed with the result, praised his team’s efforts. He acknowledged the importance of expanding Canada’s player pool in the coming years to build on this tournament’s success.
The remaining semi-final between Uruguay and Colombia will be played on July 11th, with the Copa America final scheduled for July 15th. All eyes will be on Argentina to see if Messi can lead them to another continental title, and whether this will be his final international hurrah.
