Two goals from Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi helped Argentina beat Canada 2-0 to win a ticket to the final of Copa America 2024.
Canada's memorable Copa America journey came to an end after a 2-0 defeat to World Cup champions Argentina in the semi-finals. Lionel Messi and his teammates will move on to the final on Sunday in Miami.
Canada will play for third place on Saturday in Charlotte, facing the loser of Wednesday's semifinal between Uruguay and Colombia (local time).
In the first half, Canada had several counter-attacking opportunities against the better-rated Argentina team, but could not capitalize.
Argentina, the world's number one team, controlled most of the first half and scored a beautiful opening goal in the 22nd minute. Julian Alvarez had enough space to finish successfully after a pass from Rodrigo De Paul, sending the 80,102-strong Argentina crowd into raptures.
Messi doubled the lead in the 50th minute when he headed home Enzo Fernandez's shot.
Canada, ranked 48th in the world, has far exceeded expectations in its first appearance at the Copa America.
After losing 2-0 to Argentina in their opening match, Canada beat Peru and drew with Chile to advance to the quarterfinals, where the team under new coach Jesse Marsch overcame Venezuela on penalties.
VN (according to Thethaovanhoa)