Messi's Final Copa America Appearance
Lionel Messi is gearing up for what could be his final major soccer tournament as Argentina faces debutant Canada in the 2024 Copa América opener in Atlanta on Thursday.
This isn’t just another game; it’s Messi’s last quest for international glory as Argentina chases a third straight major title.
At nearly 37, Messi remains in top form, having scored 10 goals in 10 international matches since Argentina’s World Cup victory in 2022. His record of 108 goals in 182 games places him second only to Cristiano Ronaldo.
Argentina, tied with Uruguay for the most Copa América titles, and guided by coach Lionel Scaloni, is eager to clinch their 16th title.
Leo Messi and @Argentina at George Mason Stadium getting ready for @CopaAmerica ! 🇦🇷@Argentina will take on Canada in the first round on Thursday at 8 PM ET!
— George Mason Athletics (@MasonAthletics) June 18, 2024
📸: @Argentina pic.twitter.com/8WSHxg3XW2
A Young Canada Team
Meanwhile, Canada challenges Argentina with a youthful, dynamic squad. This aligns with their strategy of integrating younger players as they prepare to co-host the 2026 World Cup.
Les Rouges’ Coach Jesse Marsch said: “We feel strongly that this is the best group to help us be successful in Copa America. It will be a big challenge for us.”
The 2024 Copa América, hosted in the U.S., is a significant event with matches held in 11 NFL stadiums. Over a million tickets sold reflect the global appeal of Messi and La Albiceleste.
Our #CANMNT Copa América squad is HERE!
— CANMNT (@CANMNT_Official) June 15, 2024
The 26 who will lead us into battle⚔️
Presented by @CIBC
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Notre sélection pour la Copa América est ICI !
Les 26 joueurs qui nous mèneront au combat ⚔️
Présenté par @CIBC
A Major Rehearsal Before 2026
Hosting the Copa América in the U.S. is a strategic move by CONMEBOL, and a prelude to the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. These decisions are expected to boost soccer’s profile in the region and tap into the huge sports fan market in the Americas.
Canada’s participation is noteworthy. The team has shown steady progress, and their presence in Copa América highlights their rising stature in international soccer. Players like Alphonso Davies, who has been recently named as the team captain, and Jonathan David infuse new energy, making Canada a team to watch in the coming years.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Messi and his pursuit of glory. Will he add another chapter to his storied career, or will the young Canadian team pull off a historic upset? One thing is certain: the 2024 Copa América is set to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing top soccer talent from across the Americas.
Canada and Argentina will kick off at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta at 8 PM EST on Thursday, June 20.
𝙑𝘼𝙈𝙊𝙎! Presented by @Degree
— OneSoccer (@onesoccer) June 18, 2024
The #CanMNT take on Argentina to kick off the 2024 Copa America before tough tests vs. Chile and Peru... thoughts on Canada's prospects in Group A? pic.twitter.com/QZhxb0UjIa
