Argentina Defeats Canada in Copa America Opener

Defending Champions Begin Title Defense with a Win

Messi Assists on Winning Goal

Defending champions Argentina kicked off their Copa America title defense with a 2-0 victory over Canada at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Thursday. Lionel Messi, who is playing in his 10th Copa America, assisted on Lautaro Martinez's 88th-minute goal to seal the victory.

Argentina dominated possession throughout the match, but Canada had a few chances to score. Alphonso Davies had a shot saved by Emiliano Martinez in the 10th minute, and Jonathan David fired wide in the 55th minute.

Argentina's breakthrough finally came in the 88th minute when Messi played a perfect pass to Martinez, who finished with a low shot into the corner. It was Messi's first assist in the Copa America since 2016.

The win gives Argentina three points in Group B, while Canada has zero points. Argentina will face Uruguay in their next match on Monday, while Canada will face Paraguay.