Argentina started their campaign in the Copa America, trouncing spirited Canada 2-0 in their group league opener. Julian Alvarez drew first blood in the 49th minute while Lautaro Martinez doubled the scoreline in the 88th minute.

Speaking after full time, Lionel Messi spoke about his side's performance: "We knew it was going to be a tough match, very physical. In the first half there was little space. Luckily we found the goal quickly in the second half, but even so it was complicated. We have the patience to have the ball, to move it from one side to the other. Most opponents play differently against us, we have to keep control."

Julian Alvarez also added saying, "It was important to win because it was the first game. The team deserved it. We had been working very well during the week."

Alphonso Davies was the lucky player to swap shirts with Messi after the match. Neither team captain will be thrilled with their individual performance on the night, but at least they’ll have a memento of their night together in Atlanta.

Classic Argentina, a kind of Lionel Scaloni’s side have now won six of their seven competitive games since lifting the World Cup: 1-0, 3-0, 1-0, 2-0, 1-0 and 2-0 on Friday morning against spirited Canada in their group league opener in the Copa America. But this was far from a total defensive shutout.

Canada had their moments, Jonathan David and Stephen Eustaquio both squandering headed opportunities from close range, while their total of nine shots on goal are the most that Argentina have faced in 15 games.

The defending champions will take the result, and the debutants will probably take the performance.