Analysis: A Sobering Defeat For Canada Against Argentina

The #CanMNT actually had 24 touches in 🇦🇷’s box today – 🇦🇷 had just 13

Despite that? 🇦🇷outshot🇨🇦 11-9, and🇨🇦had only 2 shots on target+0.78 xG

Larin(0)+David(1) had 1 shot between them, despite having 4 touches apiece in 🇦🇷’s box

Can Marsch get that🇨🇦attack going for Saturday?

— Alexandre Gangué-Ruzic (@AlexGangueRuzic) July 10, 2024

Future Bright For Canada Ahead of 2026

Prior to this game kicking off, Canada had already achieved something that was beyond many’s wildest expectations. To reach a Copa America semi-final when just under six months ago they might have not even qualified for the tournament is nothing short of incredible. For a side that only just got a new head coach just over a month from the tournament, and to have him come in and deliver a top-four finish is nothing less than spectacular. There are plenty of positives to take from this historic Copa America run, and it starts with those players on the pitch.

This was a defining tournament for many Canadians. Ismael Kone got his move to a big French side in the middle of it and celebrated that move with an ice-cold penalty that will live on in the hearts and minds of Canadian soccer fans for years to come. Jacob Shaffelburg announced himself on a World stage and showcased how far hard-work and dedication can get you from the humble coasts of Nova Scotia to one of the biggest venues in World football. Bombito, Cornelius, and Crepeau have surely earned their keep with the national team, and perhaps even earned some interest form abroad as they look to build on some stellar performances in their young careers.

Heads held high.

What a run from these boys that we all should be proud of. Made it to the semifinals on their first-ever appearance in the Copa América. The last CONCACAF nation to still be standing.

What an experience for these players ahead of 2026. Made a nation proud. 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/Rs1SIgNsQb

— Canadian Soccer Talk (@CANFutbolTalk) July 10, 2024

The list could go on and on. Canada have not only shown that they are a footballing nation, but they have proved that they are a solid one. Famous victories over Venezuela and Peru will only push this team to aim for higher. Nevertheless, there is plenty of work to be had. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Canada must make good on the raw talent and quality that they have and solidify it with a good direction. Marsch seems to have the heart and souls of these players, but they have to be supported by everyone around them. From their friends and families back home, to the executive members of the federation, to the hundreds of thousands of fans across the globe. The mentality has to be all-in. Not since the 2022 World Cup Qualifying final round has the belief in this team been so high, with the biggest difference between now and then is that the ceiling and floor is higher today.

With the third place game still to play for even more glory, let us ensure that this mountain peak becomes only a hilltop compared to the successes and achievements that this team will encounter in the years to come. For Club and Country.

Allez Les Rouges.

Header Image Photo Courtesy: Argentina National Team

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Publish date : 2024-07-09 23:21:22

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