Messi’s precise through ball set up Julián Álvarez’s goal in the 49th minute, and the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner later assisted Lautaro Martínez for the second goal in the 88th minute. Despite a challenging playing surface, Argentina secured the victory on Thursday night.
“We’ve waited a long time for this,” Messi commented. “We maintained possession patiently, though it was difficult to find open spaces.”
Argentina, aiming for their third consecutive major title following their 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup victories, outshot Canada 12-3 in the second half. The team featured eight starters from the 2022 World Cup final, with Lisandro Martínez, Marcos Acuña, and Leandro Paredes replacing Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico, and Enzo Fernández.
Coach Lionel Scaloni and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez criticized the temporary grass surface at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a venue for the 2026 World Cup. “The field was a disaster,” said Martínez. “It was like a springboard with the ball bouncing unpredictably. Improvements are needed for the Copa America to match the level of the Euro.”
Messi created the first goal by heading a pass through the defense to Alexis Mac Allister, who then passed to Álvarez. Álvarez scored into an open net after clashing with Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau. Messi extended his assist record by threading a perfect pass to Martínez, who scored past Crépeau.
Argentina will face Chile on Tuesday in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and conclude the first round against Peru on June 29 in Miami Gardens, Florida. Canada will play Peru on Tuesday in Kansas City, Kansas, and finish the group stage against Chile on June 29 in Orlando, Florida.
