(Reuters) – Canada is preparing for a huge Copa America semi-final against Argentina on Tuesday in a match that coach Jesse Marsch likened to a David versus Goliath battle.
Argentina, the 2022 World Cup winners, are the defending Copa America champions and top the FIFA rankings, while Canada is ranked 48th in the world and will be making its debut in the tournament.
“They have only lost twice in the last five years,” Marsch said of Argentina.
“(Lionel) Messi is the best player of all time, but we believe we have a chance and we are preparing like that.”
Canada lost 2-0 to Argentina in their opening match on June 20 but remains confident after beating Venezuela in a penalty shootout to reach the semifinals, despite goals from Julián Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez assisted by Messi.
“We know how strong Argentina are because we played against them but we had success in certain moments,” Marsh told reporters.
“After (the Venezuela game), I said we probably have to play a perfect game, but it might not be enough.”
Canada learned a lot about Argentina in their opening group game, but Marsch said Messi's Argentina will probably step up a gear in the semifinals.
Despite dealing with a muscle injury during the group stage, Messi played the entire game in Argentina's quarter-final win over Ecuador on penalties.
“He is fine and will take part in the match,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni told reporters.
“The decision is mine. If I know he is in good shape, I will let him play even if he is not 100%.”
“Even when he's not at his best, he still gives a lot.”
The winner will advance to the final on Sunday in Miami Gardens, Fla., and then face either Uruguay or Colombia in the semifinal on Wednesday in Charlotte, North Carolina.
(Reporting by Field Level Media; Editing by Peter Rutherford)
