Defending champions Argentina have qualified for the Copa America Final for the second time in a row after defeating Canada 2-0 in the first semi-final in New Jersey. They will be playing the winner of the 2nd semi-final which will be played between Uruguay and Colombia. Lionel Messi’s Argentina are currently the World Champions and also the defending champions of Copa America. They would be eyeing a hattrick of title wins ensuring their dominance across championships. It was a double treat for the Argentina fans as they had not only sailed to another final but their star player Lionel Messi also scored his first goal of the tournament.
Double treat for Argentina as Messi scores his first
Canada made a decent start to the match but Argentina’s attack was sharp enough to take the lead. Julian Alvarez comfortably beat Maxime Crepeau by latching onto Rodrigo De Paul’s through-ball which helped them take the lead in the 22nd minute of the match itself. After the halftime break, Lionel Messi displayed his brilliant skills scoring Argentina’s second goal in the 51st minute. He diverted Enzo Fernandez’s shot into the net. This was Messi’s first goal in the tournament which came at the right time. Messi would be entering yet another Final high on confidence after scoring that goal. Canada are now the 38th country Lionel Messi has scored against while playing for Argentina.
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Marsch and De Paul’s Quarrel
Jesse Marsch and Rodrigo De Paul got into an altercation in the 79th minute. This happened after Ismael Kone fouled the Argentine and then gently kicked the ball into his back.
Alphonso Davies sent for scans after injury
Canada’s Alphonso Davies faced an injury scare in the second half and was immediately sent for scans. The initial scans have come back good. Jesse Marsch on Davies' injury said "We’re hopeful he’s okay, but we’re not sure".
Messi hints retirement
Lionel Messi gave a hint towards retirement after the big win over Canada. While talking to Argentina’s social media channels, he said "It is a difficult cup, very hard, with hot temperatures. The fact that we are in a final once again is to be celebrated. It’s crazy what this group has done, what the Argentine national team has been doing. These are the last battles and I'm enjoying them to the fullest."
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