Argentina began their defense as Copa America champions on Thursday night, defeating Canada 2-0 in a thrilling game at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

It was a very even first half with Jesse Marsch coming out with a smart game plan for Canada to neutralize Argentina’s attacks and put them under pressure in their own half with quick offensive movements.

Julian Alvarez scores first goal of 2024 Copa America

The second half was different, though, and it only took four minutes for Julian Alvarez to score the first goal of the game.

Lionel Messi played a wonderful through ball to Alexis Mac Allister, who poked the ball to Alvarez on his right with the goalkeeper rushing out. All Alvarez had to do was slot it in with pace at the near post.

He did so, and that began a series of chances for Argentina, and Messi in particular. But Messi didn’t have his finishing boots on tonight.

He missed two big chances, but he made up for it with the assist on Argentina’s second and final goal that put the game to bed.

It was a fantastic build-up from the back, with Argentina stringing passes together quickly and efficiently. Messi played the final ball to Lautaro Martinez, who calmly pushed it past the keeper.

Argentina begin their tournament with all 3 points, and will play against bitter rivals Chile next, on June 25 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.