Copa América 2024 kicks off on Thursday June 20, 2024 with a rousing contest between reigning World Cup and Copa champions Argentina and Canada.

Let's dive into all the odds and our Copa América expert picks of the day as Lionel Messi and La Albiceleste begin their title defense.

Argentina vs Canada Copa América Odds

Odds as of June 20

Nick Holz's Pick: Argentina -1.5 Goals (-107)

I'll jump on the value on Argentina to win this game by multiple goals.

La Albiceleste have the major international experience, ball-winning tenacity and goal scoring prowess to make Thursday a long night for Canada. Argentina have won 13 of 14 matches since lifting the World Cup trophy, and look poised to contend for another Copa title in 2024.

Messi is joined in attack by the impressive tandem of Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez. While Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister form perhaps the finest midfield trio in the tournament.

Canadian stars Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David will certainly have something to say about this result, but goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau will be busy. He made four saves against France to help Canada secure a 0-0 draw last week, and will need to stand on his head to keep the Reds in this contest.

Ultimately, the skill and creativity of Argentina wins out for me in the opening match of the Copa América 2024 tournament. Expect to see De Paul, Enzo, Mac Allister, and Messi control large portions of this thrilling Group A contest. I also like the value on Julian Alvarez to score at +155 odds.

Michel Anderson's Pick: Both Teams to Score – No (-150)

Argentina have only allowed two goals in their last four games. Go back over their last 37 games and Argentina has allowed only 0.46 goal per game. For Canada, where will the goals come from? I doubt the Canucks find the back of the net while defending Copa and reigning World Cup champions Argentina will easily score on Canada.