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Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni wasn't happy with the pitch for their 2024 Copa America opening clash against Canada on Thursday, June 20. The match was played at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, US.
The Copa America holders began their campaign on a winning note as they beat Canada 2-0. Julian Alvarez gave them the lead in the 49th minute before Lautaro Martinez doubled it in the 88th minute. It wasn't their most dominant performance but La Albiceleste managed to keep a clean sheet.
After the game, manager Lionel Scaloni complained about the pitch, saying (via Gaston Edul):
“We have known for 7 months that we are going to play here and they changed the grass two days ago. We didn't play on a decent court. It was similar to Arabia but with the difference that we played there on a suitable field. It can not be like this."
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Regardless, Argentina put up a good performance and secured an important win in their opening game at 2024 Copa America. They lead Group A, which also comprises Peru and Chile. They will next face Chile on Tuesday, Wednesday 25, at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Argentina star slams the pitch after 2024 Copa America opener against Canada
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez also slammed the pitch after the game, saying "it felt like a trampoline." He, however, praised his side for their persistence and getting the win.
Martinez said (via All About Argentina):
"The pitch was a disaster; they put sod on top of synthetic turf, and it felt like a trampoline every time we received the ball.
"That's when you realize the obstacles they put in our way, but we are a team that keeps going, going, and going."
La Albiceleste had 65% possession against Canada and made 19 attempts on goal, with nine being on target. Their opponents, meanwhile, could only muster up two shots on target out of a total of 10 attempts.
Martinez had a comfortable game in goal as he made just two saves, made one high claim, and completed 37/42 passes. He also created one big chance for Lionel Messi, which the forward surprisingly missed.
