Canada was successful in rebounding from an opening defeat in its first-ever game against defending champions Argentina by claiming a 1-0 victory over Peru in an engaging Group A contest at the Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City.
Canada looked determined, working positively in possession and looking for chinks in the armor of Peru’s tight backline. That tactic would prove hard to implement against a side that had already shown some defensive resoluteness in the back-to-back goalless draw against Chile.
Early in the game, Peru forward Gianluca Lapadula signaled the kind of threat his team would pose to Canada, with a powerful shot from outside the box that forced Canadian goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau to contend with it and not be subjected to an early scare. It was an early wake-up call for Canada to show the capability of Peru from counter situations.
However, Canada had the possession in check, and their attempts on goal bore little fruit as they kept on facing a stone wall. The best chance of the first half, though, fell on a swift transition from defense to attack when striker Cyle Larin missed from point-blank range, which would have been a big chance to take the lead, with the scores level at halftime.
To beef up further on the attacking front, Canadian coach Jesse Marsch began the second half by making three substitutions designed to recapture energy and make tactical changes to the team.
The game really changed about 60 minutes in when Peruvian defender Miguel Araujo was given a straight red for his protests, forcing Peru to have to go to some defensive-minded substitutions and a bit more pragmatic with ten men on the field.
The numerical disadvantage turned out to be fatal for Peru. It was in the 74th minute when Canada really took advantage of the situation as Jonathan David made no mistake with his right-footed touch and put Canada in a crucial 1-0 lead. That goal gave some relief to the Canadians, who had been pushing relentlessly for an opener.
And with the advantage of an extra player, Canada pressed for the goal that would give them security. It did not happen, however, yet the backline of Peru was able to stand on its feet and avoid greater disaster. A lonely goal was enough to give Canada their first victory in the 2024 Copa America.
Marsch’s side was indeed tough and tactically strong, and they showed their character to go ahead and stay in front for most of the physical challenges of the match. The victory marked a big step for Canada and gave them hope to go further in the tournament.
The victory opens Canada’s account in the Copa America and is a big confidence booster for them going into the rest of the group stage matches. This loss is a step back for Peru, but more importantly, defensive abilities and fighting spirits in adversity will come to count as they try to bounce back in their ensuing fixtures.
