The much-anticipated Copa América 2024 kicks off this Thursday, with Argentina facing Canada in the opening match. This event, taking place at the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, marks the start of a thrilling tournament that will capture the attention of football fans worldwide. The game will be played at 9:00 p.m. (Argentina time), 6:00 p.m. (Mexico time), and 8:00 p.m. (Eastern Daylight Time). Argentina and Canada are part of Group A, which also includes Chile and Peru.
Argentina, the defending champions, will field a strong squad, retaining the core team that won the Copa América 2021 and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Led by Lionel Messi, the team aims to send a strong message to their rivals right from the start. Their last encounter with Canada was a friendly match in May 2010, where Argentina secured a 5-0 victory.
For the first time in Copa América history, eight female referees will officiate the matches, marking a significant milestone in the tournament's history. This inclusion reflects a broader trend of increasing female participation in major football events globally.
Canada, making its debut in the Copa América, earned its spot by defeating Trinidad and Tobago in the qualifying round. Coached by Jesse Marsch, the team views this tournament as a valuable opportunity to test themselves against top-tier teams. Alphonso Davies, one of Canada's star players, will be a key figure in their defense.
The tournament, organized by CONMEBOL and CONCACAF, will be played across 14 cities in the United States, featuring some of the most advanced stadiums. The final match is scheduled to be held at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on July 14.
The group stages will run from June 21 to July 3, followed by the knockout stages beginning on July 5. The semifinals will be held on July 10 and 11, with the grand finale taking place on the night of July 14 to 15.
- The inclusion of female referees in the Copa América is a testament to the growing recognition of women's contributions to football. This move is expected to inspire more women to pursue careers in sports officiating.
- Canada's coach, Jesse Marsch, has been focusing on building a strong mentality and high-level training among his players. He draws inspiration from various sources, including sports legends and historical figures, to motivate his team.
- Alphonso Davies, who has a positive record against Lionel Messi, expressed his respect for the Argentine team and emphasized the motivation it brings to play against the world champions.
- The Copa América 2024 will be broadcast on various international channels and platforms, including CONMEBOL TV on YouTube, ensuring that fans around the world can follow the matches live.
