In the opening match of the 2024 Copa America, Lionel Messi emphasized Argentina’s dedication to their distinctive style following a 2-0 victory against Canada. Goals by Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez secured the win, with Messi providing an assist for Martinez. This match marked Messi’s 35th appearance in the Copa America, setting a new record for the tournament.
Messi commended his team’s performance and reiterated their commitment to their strategy. “We understand the importance of teamwork and staying true to our approach. We will continue with the same humility and desire to win,” he stated. He also noted the significance of a strong start, especially considering past challenges under coach Lionel Scaloni.
Under Scaloni’s guidance, Argentina has developed a resilient squad that maintains its unique playing style, combining strong defense with creative offense. Alexis Mac Allister’s assist for Alvarez’s goal exemplified their seamless teamwork and tactical cohesion.
However, the match was not without controversy. Canada’s coach, Jesse Marsch, criticized Argentina for returning late to the field after halftime. Marsch argued that the delay provided Argentina with an unfair advantage in the second half and called for a fine. “If we were five minutes late, we’d be fined. There’d be a big issue. Let’s see what happens with Argentina. I believe they should be fined,” he asserted.
Despite the controversy, Argentina’s performance remained the highlight. With their focus on winning the tournament, Messi and his team are determined to maintain their momentum. “We’re pleased to start with a win, but now we need to rest and prepare for Chile,” Messi added, highlighting the importance of their upcoming Group A matches against Chile and Peru.
Messi’s leadership and Argentina’s disciplined approach indicate that they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead in the tournament. Their ability to stay true to their playing style while adapting to different opponents will be key in their quest for Copa America success.