CAN vs ARG – Copa America Semi-Final – Here's What You Need to Know

Canada is confronting the 2022 FIFA World Cup Champions Argentina in the semi-final of the Copa America 2024. Let's explore the essential details about the match.

After a dramatic win over Venezuela in the Copa America quarterfinal, the Canadian men’s soccer team takes on Argentina in a David versus Goliath semifinal on Tuesday night.

Canadian football is making its mark and has left a strong statement in the Copa America quarterfinal by defeating Venezuela. The team is not set to confront Argentina in the semifinals.

A Chance at Redemption

In the tournament's opening, recalling Argentina's win by 2-0 on 20th June, Canada will attempt to secure the chance for redemption from Argentina. The World No. 48 team will be looking forward to registering their first victory against the World No.1 team – Argentina.

Canada has been a tough contender in the tournament so far. The team has defeated Peru by 1-0, drew with Chile at 0-0 and knocked out Venezuela by 4-3 in the penalties following the finish of the 90 minutes.

Argentina defeated Canada 5-0 in their first senior-level meeting in Buenos Aires in May of 2010. Uruguay faces Colombia in the other semi-final at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

Canada – A Beginner in a Renowned Tournament

It is the first time that Canada has played an acclaimed tournament and it has done wonders in the first attempt by reaching the semi-final stage.

Is it beginner’s luck?

Or does Canada really have the potential to be one of the strongest football teams in the world? The contest with Argentina might bring out the results.

Jacob Shaffelburg – Maritimes Messi

Canadian talents Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David are becoming household names on the national team as they compete in top European competitions. At the Copa, Jacob Shaffelburg of Nashville SC in Major League Soccer is making a name for himself. 

The 24-year-old is popularly known as the "Maritimes Messi" after his recent performances in the Canadian jersey. After setting up David for a goal in the group stage, Shaffelburg scored in the 13th minute against Venezuela.

Shaffelburg began the tournament on Canada's bench and has three goals in 13 appearances for the national team.

The Experienced One - Jesse Marsch

Canada's stunning performance through the Copa America makes for an ideal start to Jesse Marsch's term as manager. Marsch was hired in May replacing John Herdman, and he began his tenure with a 4-0 loss to the Netherlands and a 0-0 tie with France in high-profile friendlies before losing to Argentina in the Copa America.

But Canada has only lost once since, and it is ready to play one of the most important games in the program's history, less than two months after Marsch took charge.

Marsch had coaching expertise at the top club levels in England, Germany, Austria, and North America before accepting the position in Canada.

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