The first semifinal of the 2024 Copa América has concluded, with the Argentine national team facing the Canadian national team. The match was played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, United States, under the authority of Chilean referee Piero Maza Gómez.
In the 23rd minute, Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul provided the assist for striker Julián Álvarez to open the scoring and give Argentina the lead. Then, in the 51st minute, star striker Lionel Messi doubled the advantage, finding the back of the net after being set up by Enzo Fernández, sealing the 2-0 victory for the Albiceleste.
"I'm really proud of the way the team performed today," said Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni. "We knew Canada would be a tough opponent, but we showed quality and composure to get the job done."
Messi, who is playing in his eighth Copa America semi-final, expressed his delight at reaching another final with the national team. "It's always special to represent Argentina in a final," the 37-year-old said. "We've worked hard to get here, and now we have one more step to take to defend our title."
The win extends Argentina's unbeaten run in the tournament to five matches, having won four and drawn one. They are yet to concede a goal, demonstrating the defensive solidity that has been the hallmark of their campaign so far.
"Our defensive organisation was crucial," Scaloni explained. "We know that if we can keep clean sheets, we have the offensive quality to win games. That's the mindset we're going to take into the final.
Argentina will now await the winner of the other semi-final between Uruguay and Colombia, which will take place on July 11. The final is scheduled for July 13 at MetLife Stadium, the same venue as today's semi-final.
"We are delighted to be back in the final," Messi said. "It has been a long journey, but we have shown that we have the team to go all the way. Now we just have to finish the job and bring the trophy home.
With the opportunity to win their 16th Copa América title, Argentina will be determined to cap off a successful campaign and continue their dominance in South American football. The stage is set for a thrilling finale as La Albiceleste aim to defend their continental crown.
