Lionel Messi scores as Argentina breezes past Canada, advancing to Copa América final

 Lionel Messi scores as Argentina breezes past Canada, advancing to Copa América final

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The decisive moment in Argentina’s journey towards a Copa América repeat mirrored the rest of their campaign: straightforward yet hard-fought.

It wasn’t easy. The Argentines had to work diligently, think strategically, and endure the heat at MetLife Stadium on a steamy Tuesday night in the first of two Copa semifinals. They even faced a few early scares.

However, they managed to overcome Canada, winning 2-0, to secure a spot in Sunday’s final. The clinching goal was perhaps the most subtle and simple one Lionel Messi has ever scored, marking his first of the tournament. The breakthrough goal, midway through the first half, was equally straightforward.

It involved just two passes: one from center back Cristian Romero to central midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, which seemed harmless. But the next pass found Argentina's key player against Canada, Julián Álvarez.

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Álvarez's first touch was excellent. His second touch left Canadian defender Moïse Bombito on the ground. His third touch beat goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau, giving Argentina the lead.