East Rutherford, NJ: Lionel Messi and Argentina are one step closer to securing their third consecutive major title after a decisive 2-0 victory over Canada on Tuesday night, earning them a spot in the Copa America final.

Messi's 109th international goal and a stunning strike from Julián Álvarez showcased Argentina's dominance. Álvarez opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, and Messi's instinctive goal in the 51st minute sealed the win for the Albiceleste.

Reflecting on the team's journey, Messi praised their resilience and impressive accomplishments. Argentina, currently on a 10-game unbeaten streak, will face either Uruguay or Colombia in the final, aiming to match Spain’s record of consecutive titles.

Despite the loss, Canada, ranked 48th, put up a strong fight before a vibrant crowd of 80,102 at MetLife Stadium, the NFL home of the New York Giants and Jets, and the venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The predominantly Argentina-supporting crowd witnessed a valiant effort from Canada, which lacked only in clinical finishing.

This semifinal loss mirrored Canada’s earlier 2-0 defeat to Argentina in the tournament opener in Atlanta and a 5-0 loss in their only other meeting in May 2010 in Buenos Aires.

Messi and his team will face the winner of the Colombia vs. Uruguay match in Sunday’s championship game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

"It's unbelievable what this team has achieved, what the Argentina national team is accomplishing," Messi said. "For those who have been here from the beginning, it's incredible that the national team is in another final."

Canada will play for third place at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte on Saturday.

Argentina displayed their quality by maintaining possession and exploiting openings in Canada’s defense. Despite a strong start, Canada fell behind in the 22nd minute when Rodrigo De Paul’s long pass found Álvarez, who skillfully outmaneuvered Moise Bombito and slipped the ball through goalkeeper Max Crepeau's legs.

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