Canada will face Argentina for a rare chance at the Copa America final but the world champions pose real danger.
East Rutherford braces itself for a thrilling Copa América semi-final clash as Argentina, aiming for their third consecutive major tournament final appearance, face off against surprise package Canada.
The world champions have been in imperious form, sweeping through their group with three wins, including a convincing 2-0 victory over Canada.
![Even if he's not fit, he will play — Scaloni gives update on Messi's availability against Canada](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/08072024/06ee5b1e-cc4b-4ef5-9eca-405c893d918e.png?operations=fit(180:))
23:59 - 08.07.2024
Even if he's not fit, he will play — Scaloni gives update on Messi's availability against Canada
Argentina's head coach gives final verdict on Messi's availability for the Copa America semi-final against Canada.
Despite a brief hiccup against Ecuador leading to penalties, Lionel Scaloni's side remains formidable, boasting a record of 10 consecutive Copa América wins, seven of them clean sheets.
Crucially, Argentina will be relieved as their talisman Lionel Messi is set to start, adding to their attacking prowess.
Anything less than a win in regular time would reverberate across the continent, given their dominant history against Canada, having scored seven unanswered goals in their two prior encounters.
![The shockingly poor statistics Real Madrid's Endrick produced in Brazil's Copa America exit to Uruguay](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/08072024/933d3183-6ab8-4fdc-b308-4867592189fc.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
14:45 - 08.07.2024
The shockingly poor statistics Real Madrid's Endrick produced in Brazil's Copa America exit to Uruguay
Endrick underwhelmed during Brazil's Copa America defeat to Uruguay, contrasting the hype the teenage prospect has been getting.
On the other side, Canada, under the astute guidance of Jesse Marsch, has defied expectations to reach their first Copa América semi-final. They have emerged as the top CONCACAF nation in this tournament, surpassing regional powerhouses like Mexico and the USA.
Despite their underdog status, Canada has shown resilience, especially after being pushed to penalties by Venezuela in their last outing, despite starting strongly in recent matches.
![Euro 2024: Silky-touched Spain collide with talented France in first semifinal](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/09072024/07e4728d-f0dc-4c9b-bdbd-6a0956172ca3.jpeg?operations=fit(180:))
10:30 - 09.07.2024
Euro 2024: Silky-touched Spain collide with talented France in first semifinal
Only one team will go through to the final who will it be?
The Canadians will draw confidence from their ability to strike first in crucial games, although they recognize the challenge posed by an Argentina team brimming with experience and firepower.
Their journey thus far has been a testament to their growth and Marsch's tactical acumen, making them a formidable opponent on the big stage.
![The five reasons Arsenal want Ricardo Calafiori to solve their long-standing left back problem](https://sportal365images.com/process/smp-images-production/ringier.africa/03072024/21cf7b32-95fe-4d22-b21d-a2b3c5f91418.jpg?operations=fit(180:))
09:00 - 09.07.2024
The five reasons Arsenal want Ricardo Calafiori to solve their long-standing left back problem
The five reasons Arsenal are opting to sign Italy's Euro 2024 breakthrough star Ricardo Calafiori.
As both teams prepare to battle for a place in the final, the stage is set for an intriguing clash of styles and ambitions.
Argentina will look to assert their dominance early, while Canada will rely on their defensive solidity and counter-attacking prowess to unsettle the favourites.
With no extra time on offer, the urgency to settle matters within regulation adds an extra layer of intensity to what promises to be a captivating semi-final encounter.