Canada is setting the stage for a monumental clash in the Copa America semi-finals as they prepare to face Argentina on Tuesday. Coach Jesse Marsch has described the upcoming match as a classic David versus Goliath battle, highlighting the sheer scale of the challenge ahead.
Argentina, crowned World Cup champions in 2022 and current Copa America titleholders, sit atop the FIFA rankings and are favored to win the tournament once again. In stark contrast, Canada enters the competition ranked 48th in the world, marking their debut in the prestigious tournament.
Despite a tough 2-0 loss to Argentina in their opening match on June 20, where Lionel Messi orchestrated both goals for Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, Canada has shown remarkable resilience. Their journey to the semi-finals was secured with a nerve-wracking penalty shootout victory against Venezuela, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure.
\"They've only lost twice in five years,\" Marsch remarked about Argentina. \"(Lionel) Messi is the best player to ever play the game. But we believe we have a chance and that's the way we're preparing.\"
Canada remains optimistic about their chances, drawing confidence from their performance against Argentina and their success against Venezuela. Marsch emphasized the need for perfection in their upcoming match, acknowledging the formidable talent Argentina brings to the field. \"I said after the (Venezuela) match that we probably have to play a perfect match and maybe even then it may not be enough,\" he told reporters.
As Canada steps onto the pitch against Argentina, fans around the world will be watching to see if the underdogs can defy expectations and make history in the Copa America tournament.
Reference(s):
Canada primed for role of giant-killers in Copa clash with Argentina
cgtn.com
