The Copa América begins in Atlanta with Argentina against Canada

Americans jumped at the chance to see these international soccer stars in action, especially in the opening match. With the prospect of Lionel Messi playing in the ATL making ticket sales rival the price of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour last year, local fans are sure to bring a great energy at this anticipated match.

group A

In Group A of the Copa América, which includes Argentina, Canada, Peru and Chile, all eyes immediately turn to reigning FIFA World Cup champions Argentina. Still ranked world No. 1 after winning 13 of 14 matches since winning the 2022 World Cup, ‘La Albiceleste’ are favorites to repeat as South American champions.

In contrast, Canada’s path to its first-ever Copa América was tumultuous. Firstly, the young team failed to live up to the hype they received ahead of the 2022 World Cup when they were eliminated in the group stage of the tournament. Then, in 2023, Canada narrowly qualified for this tournament by defeating Trinidad and Tobago following a loss to Jamaica in the CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals.

Off the field, Canada Soccer is grappling with financial problems and disputes with the women’s team over equal pay. Now, with American coach Jesse March at the helm for his first competitive match with the team, Canada strives to make a statement against Messi and his team.

Players to watch on Thursday

Of course, it’s difficult to think of Argentine football without thinking of Lionel Messi. Often touted as football’s ‘GOAT’, the Argentine captain recently moved his illustrious career from Barcelona to MLS side Inter Miami FC. To say that Messi left his mark on this new team would be an understatement; In just 12 games this 2024 season, Messi has scored 12 goals and provided 13 assists.

Other notable Argentine players include striker Julian Alvarez and defender Cristian Romero. Alvarez has had a breakout season, helping his English Premier League side Manchester City win a fourth consecutive English top-flight title last year. Alvarez has 11 goals and 9 assists in 36 matches. Also playing for an English team, Cristian Romero has been a defensive powerhouse for Tottenham Hotspur this year and should be a force to be reckoned with this Copa América.

Unfortunately, Atlanta United’s best and brightest, Thiago Almada, will not be participating in this tournament as he prepares for the 2024 Olympics with the Argentina U-23 team. Last February, Almada was instrumental in leading the Argentina U-23 men’s national team to a 1-0 victory over Brazil to secure tickets to Paris.

On the Canadian side, international stars Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David are hard to miss. Davies, named team captain for this tournament despite being a young defender, has established himself as a crucial player for powerful German side Bayern Munich. His leadership will undoubtedly strengthen Canada’s often weaker backline. Meanwhile, striker David during his season for Lille in Ligue 1 has been nothing short of impressive, scoring 26 goals in all competitions. David’s ability to find the back of the net should give Canada the edge it needs to advance in the tournament.

Where to watch

“Atlanta’s quintessential football bar,” Brewhouse, promises a high-energy crowd for this game.

Fado Buckhead will broadcast all matches of the European Championship and Copa América.

wild jump will welcome a pre-game party starting at 4 p.m. It’s just a short walk from Mercedes-Benz, so grab a bite before heading to the game or stay for the celebration.

MARTA and Soccer in the Streets will host a watch evening at West End Station to launch the Copa América international men’s football tournament.

TV

All matches will be broadcast live on FOX Sports (FOX and FS1) and on TUDN.