Argentina Defeats Canada 2 0 In Semifinals

Lionel Messi Scores 109th International Goal, Guides Argentina to Copa America Final

Argentina Defeats Canada 2-0 in Semifinals

Messi's Goal Sends Albiceleste to Third Consecutive Final

East Rutherford, New Jersey - Lionel Messi scored his 109th international goal, a first-half penalty, to guide Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Canada in the semifinals of the 2024 Copa America on Tuesday.

With the win, Argentina advanced to their third consecutive Copa America final and will face either Uruguay or Colombia in Saturday's title match.

Messi opened the scoring in the 28th minute after Canada goalkeeper Milan Borjan brought down Lautaro Martinez in the penalty area. Messi calmly converted the spot-kick to give Argentina the lead.

Nicolas Gonzalez doubled Argentina's advantage in the 76th minute, finishing off a brilliant team move involving Messi and Rodrigo De Paul.

Canada, who were making their first appearance in the Copa America semifinals, gave a spirited performance but were ultimately outclassed by the more experienced Argentines.

Messi, who was named man of the match, was a constant threat throughout the contest and his goal was a moment of brilliance that ultimately proved decisive.