Argentina National Football Team vs Canada Men’s National Soccer Team Lineups

July 18, 2025 By Johan Curtis No Comments 4 minutes

Football fans, get ready to relive an electrifying showdown! When Argentina and Canada faced off, it wasn’t just a semifinal; it was a statement. Whether you were cheering for Messi’s magic or Canada’s rising momentum, this game was a must-watch.

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Argentina vs Canada National Football Teams – Full Breakdown & Highlights

This clash brought the legendary world champions face-to-face with a fearless Canadian side that’s been turning heads with every performance. Let’s dive into the player stats, starting lineups, and match-defining moments that made this game unforgettable.

Final Scorecard: Argentina Shows Their Class

While Canada brought grit and energy, Argentina’s experience and control were ultimately decisive.

Final Score: Argentina 2 – 0 Canada

Goals:

Julian Alvarez (Argentina) – 22nd minute
Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 51st minute

Argentina controlled the tempo throughout the match and converted their chances with clinical precision, while Canada struggled to break through a rock-solid defense.

Starting Lineups: Big Names, Big Pressure

Argentina Starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez
Right Back: Nahuel Molina
Center Backs: Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez
Left Back: Nicolás Tagliafico
Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister
Forwards: Lionel Messi (C), Julian Alvarez, Nicolás González

Canada Starting XI:

Goalkeeper: Maxime Crépeau
Defenders: Alistair Johnston, Moïse Bombito, Kamal Miller, Alphonso Davies (C)
Midfielders: Stephen Eustáquio, Ismaël Koné, Jonathan Osorio
Forwards: Cyle Larin, Jonathan David, Jacob Shaffelburg

It was a battle of seasoned champions against an exciting, hungry Canadian side led by Alphonso Davies’ blistering pace.

Masterclass in Motion: Lionel Messi’s Impact

Still the heartbeat of the Argentine team, Lionel Messi delivered another iconic performance:

Goal: 1
Key Passes: 4
Dribbles Completed: 5
Touches: 72
Pass Accuracy: 87%

Messi’s 51st-minute goal, a classic poacher’s finish, showed his instincts are as sharp as ever. His vision and control kept Canada’s backline guessing all night.

The Rising Hero: Julian Alvarez Leads the Line

Julian Alvarez, known for his tireless work rate and finishing ability, struck early to put Argentina in control.

Goal: 1
Shots on Target: 2
Touches in Opponent Box: 8
Fouls Drawn: 3

His 22nd-minute goal was the product of a high press and cold-blooded finish, giving Argentina a crucial early lead.

Canada’s Effort: Davies & David Push Forward

While Canada didn’t find the net, stars like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David worked hard to break through Argentina’s wall.

Alphonso Davies:

Key Passes: 2
Tackles: 3
Dribbles Attempted: 7

Jonathan David:

Shots: 2
Offsides: 1
Pass Accuracy: 78%

Davies’ pace down the left wing was a constant threat, but Argentina’s back four handled the pressure with discipline.

Defensive Wall: Argentina’s Backline Stands Strong

Led by Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez, Argentina’s defense barely gave Canada a sniff at goal.

Tackles (Combined): 9
Clearances: 13
Aerial Duels Won: 7

Emiliano Martinez also made a key save in the 67th minute to deny David and preserve the clean sheet.

Key Match Stats:

Stat	Argentina	Canada
Possession	58%	42%
Shots (On Target)	13 (6)	7 (2)
Pass Accuracy	85%	79%
Fouls Committed	12	15
Corners	5	3
Yellow Cards	1	2

Argentina’s ability to control the ball and minimize mistakes was the difference in a game that demanded composure.

Game-Changing Moments:

22nd Min – Alvarez Goal: A brilliant press-and-finish sequence stunned Canada early and put Argentina ahead.
51st Min – Messi Goal: A rebound goal that deflated Canada’s momentum and energized Argentina.
67th Min – Martinez Save: A full-stretch save to deny David’s close-range strike and maintain the clean sheet.
Late Subs: Canada brought on fresh legs, but Argentina’s tactical shape remained firm.

Final Thoughts: Argentina Marches On, Canada Holds Their Head High

This match showed the clear gap in experience but also highlighted Canada’s rapid growth on the international stage. Argentina’s veteran leadership, structure, and execution carried the day, but Canada’s grit and resilience proved they belong in the conversation.

As both teams look ahead to their next challenges, one thing is certain – this matchup delivered on every level. Whether you’re a Messi loyalist or a Davies believer, this was football at its finest.