Argentina Beats Canada 2-0 in Copa America Opener

Highlights and Analysis

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Argentina began its defense of the Copa America title with a hard-fought 2-0 victory against Canada in Atlanta. Lionel Messi starred for Argentina, scoring a stunning free-kick in the first half before setting up Rodrigo de Paul for the second goal in the second half. The result puts Argentina top of Group A after the opening round of matches.

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The match was a tale of two halves, with Argentina dominating the first half and Canada coming more into the game in the second half. Messi opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a trademark free-kick that curled over the Canadian wall and into the top corner. Argentina continued to create chances throughout the half, but they were unable to add to their lead.

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Canada improved after the break, but they were unable to find a way past the Argentina defense. Messi continued to be a threat going forward and he eventually set up De Paul for the second goal in the 81st minute. The goal sealed the victory for Argentina and gave them a perfect start to their Copa America campaign.