Argentina, the defending champions, started their 2024 Copa América campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Canada. The match saw Julian Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez scoring in the second half, while Lionel Messi missed a couple of clear opportunities after a goalless first half.

The notable absence in the Argentine lineup was Enzo Fernández, the record signing, who was surprisingly left on the bench. Despite his efforts to regain fitness following hernia surgery before the club season ended, Fernández did not feature in the game. Head coach Luciano Spalletti Lionel Scaloni opted for a midfield trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, and Alexis Mac Allister, a decision that paid off with the victory.

With this tactical success, Enzo Fernández might find it challenging to secure playing time in the upcoming matches against Chile and Peru. The team’s performance without him raises questions about his role in the tournament going forward.