Defending champions Argentina will play Uruguay or Columbia in the 2024 Copa America final after they comfortably defeated Canada 2-0.

Lionel Messi who had gone without scoring in the team’s previous three matches including a failed Panenka in the penalty shoot-out against Ecuador in the quarterfinal finally broke his goal-draught, helping his country with a strike to ensure the fourth Copa America final in five years.

Canada made a bright start to the match in New Jersey. Still, Argentina took the lead when Julian Alvarez latched onto Rodrigo De Paul’s through-ball and confidently beat Maxime Crepau.

Messi scored Argentina’s second shortly after the halftime break when he diverted Enzo Fernaandez’s shot into the net. It was Messi’s first goal of the tournament.

Canada threatened late on but Argentina preserved their clean sheet and will be expected to defend their crown when they take to the pitch for Sunday’s showpiece final in Miami.

However, Angel Di Maria who is set to say goodbye to international football after the Copa final on the 14th of July, commented, “Whatever happens (in the final) on the 14th, I think I can leave through the front door. I gave everything. I always gave my life for this shirt. There were times when it didn't happen for me and lately, it has. I am grateful to everyone who supported me.”

Messi also, speaking to Argentina's social media channels after the match, divulged, "It is a difficult cup, very hard, with hot temperatures. The fact that we are in a final once again will be celebrated. It's crazy what this group has done, what the Argentine national team has been doing. These are the last battles and I'm enjoying them to the fullest."