Argentina beat Canada 2-0 last night to seal their place in the Copa América final.
In East Rutherford, after starting the game with chances on both sides, the world champions opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, through Julián Alvarez. De Paul cleared the Manchester City striker, who beat Bombito and put the ball between Crépeau’s legs.
Defending champions, Argentina could have extended their lead before the break, but the second goal did not come until the 51st minute, by Lionel Messi, who made his debut in this edition of the Copa América. After a throw-in, Messi unmarked De Paul, Koné cut in, but the ball fell to Enzo Fernández, who shot, and the Inter Miami striker deflected against the goalkeeper.
Messi scored his 14th goal in 38 Copa América games, moving up to fourth on the list of top scorers. The Argentinian was only the second player to score in six editions, replicating Brazil’s Zizinho.
Winning by two goals, Argentina controlled the game. Otamendi was introduced in the 64th minute, and Di María left in the 78th minute. On the Canadian side, Stephen Eustáquio returned to the starting line-up, but was replaced in the 72nd minute.
In the final stretch, the Canadians still had a few chances, but they couldn’t beat Dibu Martínez.
In the final, scheduled for Sunday, Argentina will be seeking their 16th title against Colombia and Uruguay, who will face each other the following morning, in the other semi-final. Canada, a newcomer to the competition, will compete for bronze on Saturday.
Watch the match summary: