Canada put up a tough fight against Lionel Messi’s Argentina on Thursday night, but fell 2-0 to a defeat in the opening match of the Copa America in Atlanta.

Second-half goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez gave the reigning world champions a strong start in front of a largely supportive crowd at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

• Also read: Another ruined lead for CF Montreal

Argentine captain Lionel Messi, for his part, could only provide an assist for his team’s second goal, which came in the 88th minute.

One thing is certain, the game was not easy for the Argentinians, who often had to contend with a Maxime Crépeau who was in top form. The Quebec goalkeeper for the Portland Timbers in the MLS made six saves, including several spectacular ones, to keep Canada in the game.

He notably teamed up with defender Derek Cornelius to stop Messi during a dangerous attack in the 65th minute and also shone with energy in front of veteran Angel Di Maria at the start of the game.

His teammates were not to be outdone as Canada attempted 12 shots during the match, including Jonathan David who missed a golden chance to equalise in the 67th minute when his deflected header went over the bar.

The three CF Montreal players selected by Canada for the tournament, Samuel Piette, Mathieux Choinière and Joel Waterman, did not play in this match. However, several former members of the organization, in this case Alistair Johnston, Ismaël Koné and Crépeau, were at the centre of the discussions.

Canada will play its second group stage match against Peru in Kansas City on Tuesday. Canada lost 2-0 in the opening match of the Copa America in Atlanta.

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