Argentina vs Canada prediction: SOUTH AMERICA: Copa América – Play Offs betting tips on match 2024-07-09 00:00.
[p]East Rutherford beckons for the first of two mouthwatering Copa América semi-finals, with world champions Argentina looking to make it three consecutive final appearances at major tournaments. After winning all three of their group games without reply, including a 2-0 win against Canada, the only blemish on their defensive record came as they were taken to penalties after a 1-1 draw against Ecuador.[/p]
[p]Competition rules ensure that there is no extra time to be played at this tournament, so getting the job done in regulation time will be a priority for Lionel Scaloni. Anything short of an Argentinian win would send shockwaves across the continent, not least as they’ve scored seven unanswered goals against this opposition in their two prior encounters. That’s not to mention they’ve won ten straight Copa América tournament games, keeping a clean sheet in seven of those.[/p]
[p]There is at least one man from the USA to make the final four of their own Copa América, as coach of the Canadian team, Jesse Marsch, has incredibly guided the Maple Leafs deep into this competition. They were one of six CONCACAF nations added to the regular CONMEBOL participants for this tournament and no matter what happens, they can be proud of themselves after confirming their place as the best of their own federation ahead of Mexico and hosts USA. [/p]
[p]Despite their long outsider status to reach what would be a first ever major final outside of the CONCACAF Gold Cup, Canada must maintain belief that they can topple the only side to beat them so far at this tournament (90 mins – W1, D2, L1). Two of the last three games saw Canada strike first, but being pegged back by Venezuela to be taken to penalties last time out suggests a strong start doesn’t necessarily guarantee success. [/p]
[p]Players to watch: Lautaro Martínez has been Argentina’s go-to guy, averaging one goal per game across six internationals since the end of the club season (G6), despite playing the whole 90’ just once. As for Canada, Nashville star Jacob Shaffelburg has been involved with both of their goals scored in regulation time during the tournament (G1, A1). [/p]
[p]Hot stat: Three of Argentina’s last four Copa América games were won after a drawn first half. [/p]