On the night of July 9-10 (Moscow time), the first semifinal of the 2024 Copa América was played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA. The reigning world champions Argentina defeated Canada 2-0.
Man of the match was Argentina captain and striker Lionel Messi, 37, who scored the Albiceleste's second goal in the 51st minute.
Earlier, in the 22nd minute, Messi's attacking partner Julián Álvarez had opened the scoring for Argentina.
“It was a tough match, but we knew Canada would be a tough opponent,” Messi said in his post-match interview. “I’m proud of the team’s performance and our ability to keep our cool and control the game. Reaching another Copa América final is a great achievement, but we still have one more hurdle to overcome.”
Argentina's victory means they have now reached their third successive Copa America final as they look to defend the title they won in 2021. Messi, playing in his fifth Copa America tournament, is determined to finally lift the trophy that has eluded him for so long.
"This is the opportunity we have worked for," Messi said. "We have come so close in the past, but this time we will give it our all to bring the trophy home to Argentina."
The 37-year-old forward has been in inspired form throughout the tournament, scoring crucial goals and leading his team with his talent and vision. His performance against Canada was another demonstration of his enduring quality and importance to the Argentina national team.
"Lionel was immense tonight," said Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni. "His leadership and quality make him irreplaceable for us. We will need him to be at his best again in the final if we are to defend our title.
In the other semi-final, Uruguay and Colombia will face off on July 11 to determine Argentina's opponent in the final. Whichever team emerges victorious will face a formidable challenge in trying to overcome the reigning champions and Messi's quest for international glory.
"We are not taking anything for granted," Messi warned. "We know the final will be a tough test, but we are ready to give it our all. This is the moment we have been waiting for, and we will not let it pass us by.
With just days to go until the final, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the 2024 Copa América is palpable. Messi and Argentina are set to cement their legacy as one of the greatest international teams of their era. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament, as the veteran forward looks to lead his country to another continental triumph.
