America Cup
Defending champion Argentina has made it through the perfect group phase at the Copa America in the USA. After a 2-0 win against Peru at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, the Argentinians marched into the quarter-finals without losing a point or conceding a goal. The “Albiceleste” had already qualified before the last group match. Canada also moved into the next round with a 0-0 draw against Chile.
30.06.2024 10.15
Online since today, 10.15 am
The reigning South American and World Champion struggled a little in the first half of the game, but things picked up quickly after the half-time break: Two minutes after the restart, Lautaro Martinez scored to make it 1-0. After a missed penalty by the “Albiceleste”, it was Martinez again who prevailed after a beautiful pass and scored to make it 2-0.
The world champions had to do without superstar Lionel Messi and coach Lionel Scaloni. Messi had sustained a thigh injury in the second group match against Chile (1:0), which is why the coaching staff rested him for the quarter-finals. Scaloni had been suspended by the host continental association Conmebol due to his team’s repeated late return from half-time in recent matches. Assistant coach Walter Samuel took over. This time, against Peru, the Argentinians were first on the pitch when the game restarted.
America Cup
Schedule and tables
Draw is enough for Canada to advance
In Orlando, the 0-0 draw against Chile was enough for the Canadians to advance to the quarter-finals as group runners-up behind Argentina. Chile, who should have won, had weakened themselves by sending Gabriel Suazo off for a second yellow card. Violent protests from the South Americans did not help. The Chileans were knocked out of the tournament in the group stage for the first time since 2004 and did not score a single goal in their three games.
As group winners of Pool A, the “Albiceleste” will play in the quarterfinals against the runner-up of Group B, which will only be determined on Monday (CEST). With 15 titles, Argentina is the record champion of the Copa America. The Canadians will have to deal with the winner of Group B.
