If someone wanted an explanation for the Butterfly Effect, there is nothing right but Neal Maupay being responsible for Lionel Messi winning the world cup in 2022

Never would have one imagined a random Arsenal fixture in the English Premier League would result in Lionel Messi taking a clear lead or in fact, even beat Cristiano Ronaldo in the GOAT debate. Back in 2020, football had just opened up amid the ravaging COVID-19 pandemic. Crowds were barred, fake pre-recorded noises, kicking of balls in top leagues heard clear as day for the first time on TV, extra substitutions, drinks break, and whatnot, the phase had it all.

The 2019-20 EPL season resumed in June 2020, and Arsenal were set to take on Brighton (after a rather heavy defeat to Manchester City in the first game of the restart). An out-of-form Arsenal had only a few players to rely on barring their clinical striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and one among them was their then-goalkeeper Bernd Leno. In the 40th minute of the match, Brighton attacker Neal Maupay (often known for riling up opponents, often hilariously but at the expense of their rivals’ composure), charged at Leno who was attempting to catch an incoming ball.

Brighton’s Neal Maupay started it all

Just as the German caught it, Maupay gave a rather hard nudge that caused Leno’s knee to pop. Writhing in pain, Leno was soon stretchered off, with the German angrily pointing fingers at Maupay while on his way back. In came Emiliano Martinez, Arsenal’s long-standing keeper, who had gone on multiple loan spells but managed to stay at the club since turning pro in 2012.

Arsenal would go on to lose the match, and Maupay became the target of Arsenal fans, with popular AFTV member TY, even labeling him a “Cheat.” However, the butterfly effect for a certain country in South America had just begun. Martinez, then took to between the sticks like duck to water, and was soon instrumental in the team’s win in the 2019-20 FA Cup. In the beginning of the next season, he impressed yet again, as Arsenal beat Liverpool on penalties to lift the 2020/21 Community Shield.

The North London club would then not be able to provide guarantee to Martinez’s spot as the main GK despite all his heroics. Leno was back, and it meant that Martinez will be reduced to the bench once again. That’s when Aston Villa saw the opportunity, paying the club 17 million EURO. The Argetinian began strong as expected at Aston Villa right away, and his performances soon began attracting eyeballs internationally.

Emiliano Martinez’s meteoric rise was wild

Although Martinez was in a couple of Argentinian squads during the years 2011, 2019, he never started for them. However, in June 2021, Martinez made his debut in WC qualification match against Chile. This has a backstory as well. Back then it was Franco Armani who was the starting GK, and he allegedly had repeated bouts of COVID, leading to Martinez to take his place. Had it not been for Armani taking ill, Martinez might have still sat in the bench.

Martinez was impressive for Argentina as well, and only began going from strength to strength. He helped Argentina end their 28-year trophy, as the South American team clinched the Copa America after beating Brazil 1-0 in the final. In the semi-finals, it was Martinez’s heroics in the penalty shootout that saw them through. Martinez won the Golden Glove as well.

This was only the start of things to come. By 2022, Martinez had cemented his place as Argentina’s number 1 GK. It was time for the 2022 World Cup (in Winter in Qatar). Martinez was at his usual best, and his performance was at the forefront after he helped his team beat Netherlands in the quarter-finals on penalties.

Emi Martinez helped Lionel Messi peak

The wild Argentina vs. France final had it all, but nothing could match what happened in the dying moments of the injury time of extra time. After Kylian Mbappe had matched Messi’s exploits in the final, the score was 3-3, with just a few seconds left for the final to be decided on penalties. Argentina had failed to clear a lofted ball and substitute Randal Kolo Muani suddenly found himself one-on-one with Martinez with acres of time and space. The Frenchman decided to blast the ball while placing it a bit away from Martinez’s body.

The Aston Villa GK using all his might stretched his leg to the fullest in a fraction of a second to deny the Frenchman, and sink France hearts. The game would go on to the penalties, and it was Martinez’s antics every time a Frenchman walked up to take the penalty that was unsettling. Aurelien Tchouameni’s rhythm was seemingly affected after he shot the ball wide, prior to which Martinez had thrown the ball away instead of handing it to Tchouameni himself. It remained the only miss in the shootout and Argentina, Lionel Messi and co. lifted the world cup. This also went on to nearly end the GOAT debate between Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi.

Argentina will be aiming for a record-breaking 16th Copa America title when they take on Colombia

The Copa America 2024 is set for an electrifying conclusion as defending champions Argentina face off against Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday. This highly anticipated final marks the first-ever Copa America final meeting between these two footballing powerhouses. Argentina aim to secure a record-breaking 16th title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.

Argentina’s road to the final has been marked by grit and determination. They navigated a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Ecuador in the quarter-finals before securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-finals. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring, followed by a historic goal from Lionel Messi, who now stands as the second-highest male goalscorer in international football with 109 goals.

Argentina’s unbeaten streak now extends to 10 matches, and they remain unbeaten in major tournament knockout games on American soil since the 1994 World Cup. It is no understatement that they go into the clash as favourites.

Colombia are no pushovers, however. They have been in exceptional form. Since their 1-0 loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying in February 2022, they have embarked on a record-breaking unbeaten run of 28 matches.

Jefferson Lerma’s header gave Colombia the lead before Daniel Munoz’s red card put them at a numerical disadvantage against Uruguay. Despite this setback, Colombia’s resilience shone through as they held on to secure their place in the final. The victory over Uruguay was marred by a brawl involving Uruguayan players and Colombian supporters, but Colombia’s focus remained unwavering. This final represents a chance for Colombia to end a long wait since their first Copa America triumph in 2001.

Team News and Predicted XI

Argentina

For the final, Argentina face no injury or suspension issues. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to maintain an unchanged lineup. The defence will feature a solid back four with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico, with Emiliano Martinez as the goalkeeper.

In the midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul are anticipated to keep their places, even though Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios are pushing for a start. Angel Di Maria is poised for his international farewell on the right wing. Alexis Mac Allister, who has been impressive on the international stage, will play a crucial role, linking up with Messi from the midfield.

Lionel Messi, who overcame a leg injury to play the full match against Canada, will lead the attack alongside Julian Alvarez. Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, is expected to begin on the bench and should be brought on in the second half.

Predicted Playing XI (4-4-2): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lis. Martinez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, E. Fernandez, De Paul, Di Maria; Messi, Alvarez

Colombia

With Daniel Munoz suspended, Santiago Arias is set to start at right-back, joining Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, and Johan Mojica in a solid four-man backline. Camilo Vargas will likely be the goalkeeper.

In midfield, Jefferson Lerma and Richard Ríos are expected to form the double pivot, providing protection for the defence and allowing the attacking players to push forward.

Captain James Rodriguez, who has recorded a tournament-high six assists, will continue in the number 10 role. He will be supported by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias on the flanks.

Jhon Cordoba, who has contributed with two goals and two assists, is expected to lead the attack, with Jhon Duran and Rafael Santos Borre available as options.

Predicted Playing XI (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Santiago Arias, Sanchez, Cuesta, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Jhon Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba

Key Stats

• Victory will see Argentina win their 16th Copa America title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s illustrious history.
• Colombia are unbeaten in their last 28 international games.
• Argentina have won 26 of their 43 meetings against Colombia in all competitions.
• A win for Colombia will see them win just their second Copa America title, their first since 2001.

Match Deciding Duel

Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) vs James Rodriguez (Colombia)

Argentina have been solid in defence and penetrating their backline has proven to be a challenge for most sides in the competition. Colombia have a rather dynamic attack but will depend on the veteran James Rodriguez to act as the playmaker.

With the likes of Luis Diaz able to make the most of opportunities, the onus will be on Enzo Fernandez to ensure Rodriguez does not have space to manoeuvre in. The duel between the two players could certainly set the tone for which way the cookie crumbles on the night.

Prediction

Argentina 2-1 Colombia

The clash is likely to be an entertaining one with the midfield battle expected to set the tone for the result. Argentina. however, have more strength in depth and the ability to bring a player of Lautaro Martinez’s calibre off the bench in the second half is akin to a cheat code. The Inter Milan star is expected to lead the defending champions to a close 2-1 win on the night.

Argentina and Canada will face off in the first semifinal of Copa America 2024, a repeat of the competition opener from Group A

Canada have a golden opportunity to make history as they face defending champions Argentina in the first semi-final of Copa America 2024 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.

In a rematch of their tournament opener, Canada can become the second CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America final. Both sides advanced to the semi-finals via penalty shootouts, with Argentina defeating Ecuador and Canada overcoming Venezuela after 1-1 draws in regular time respectively.

Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been fortified by their exceptional defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory over Ecuador secures their fifth consecutive appearance in the Copa America semi-finals. Historically, Argentina have been strong at this stage, progressing in seven of their last eight attempts, with the only setback being against Brazil in 2019.

A triumph on Tuesday would mark the first time Argentina reached the Copa America final as defending champions since 1959. Scaloni’s team has been defensively sound, conceding just once throughout the tournament. The Albiceleste are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, allowing only three goals during this period.

On the other hand, Canada has shown remarkable resilience since their initial loss to Argentina. Jesse Marsch’s squad has conceded just once in their last three games. They are the third CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals in their debut appearance, following Honduras and Mexico. They are also the first from the region to advance this far since the USA in 2016.

This semi-final marks Canada’s fifth appearance in the final four of a continental tournament this century. They have progressed beyond this stage twice, in the 2023 Nations League and the 2000 Gold Cup. Canada aims to emulate Mexico’s 2001 Copa America run, where Mexico reached the final before losing to Colombia.

Argentina’s defensive stability and tactical discipline under Scaloni will be pivotal, also giving their world-class frontline a base to build upon. Canada, under Marsch, has transformed into a more disciplined and resilient team. Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies will be crucial in breaking down Argentina’s defence. SoccerSouls takes a closer look at this clash.

Team News and Predicted XI

Argentina

Lionel Messi was not at his best against Ecuador and will be keen to make amends for the penalty miss in the shootout. he missed the final group game with a hamstring injury but now appears to be back to full fitness.

Lionel Scaloni is likely to retain his flexible 4-3-3 formation with Emiliano Martínez in goal. He should be protected by the back four of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Marcos Acuna.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes should perform the role of the pivot in the centre, giving Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister and the dynamic Rodrigo De Paul the freedom to push forward. Lionel Messi is expected to don the playmaker’s role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez leading the line. Angel Di Maria will offer Argentina another option off the bench should they need to shift gears.

Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Mac Allister, Paredes, De Paul; Messi, La. Martinez, Alvarez

Canada

Inter Milan Tajon Buchanan remains a major doubt for Canada after he suffered a broken tibia during training just days before their match against Venezuela. This injury puts his participation in doubt not just for the semi-final clash against Argentina but also for the remainder of the tournament.

Jesse Marsch has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from for the clash and is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal. The shot-stopper should be protected by the back four of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, and  Alphonso Davies.

Stephen Eustáquio and Jonathan Osorio should form the double pivot, freeing up Jonathan David to act as the playmaker. Cyle Larin should start up front, with Richie Laryea and Jacob Shaffelburg providing support out wide.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Osorio, Eustaquio; Laryea, David, Shaffelburg; Larin

Key Stats

• Argentina have never conceded a goal against Canada.
• Argentina have not lost a major tournament match on U.S. soil since a 3-2 defeat to Romania in the 1994 World Cup’s round of 16.
• A win on the night will see Canmada make it to their first-ever Copa America final at the first time of asking.
• Argentina have not made it to the final of the competition as defending champions since 1959.

Match Deciding Duel

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) vs Derek Cornelius (Canada)

Lautaro Martinez is the top scorer in the tournament this season and has made it a habit of scoring late goals for Argentina. This augurs well for a side that is defensively compact, giving them a second wind to settle the game as the opposition gets tired. Derek Cornelius will have his hands full all night but will know that he cannot slack off for even a second with Martinez on the prowl.

Argentina’s ability to score late coupled with Canada’s vulnerabilities in the second half of the game makes for a thrilling finale in the final 30 minutes of the first semifinal. While Argentina do have several threats and matchwinners in their lineup, Martinez’s clinical touch has given them the edge this summer. He will certainly be aiming to make a difference once again on Tuesday.

Transfer Watch

Jonathan David

The LOSC Lille attacker is Canada’s trump card going forward and is expected to leave the Ligue 1 giants this summer. David is a pacy player whose ability to get into space and clinical ability in the box helps make a difference. While several clubs are keeping tabs on him, a solid showing against the defending FIFA World Cup holders will only help boost his profile among potential suitors.

David will be up against the meanest defence in the competition on the night. The duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez aren’t just formidable defenders but their ‘take no prisoners’ approach will certainly add a physical element to the duel. David is unlikely to come up against a meaner backline in the competition and how well he handles this challenge could determine his stock this summer.

Prediction

Argentina 2-0 Canada

Both teams will be familiar with each other having felt each other out on the opening day. The stakes are much higher this time round and Canada will be hoping for a monumental upset. Argentina were handed a late scare against Ecuador and that perhaps will ensure they don’t take Tuesday’s game for granted. The game should be a hard-fought one with Argentina’s match winners making the difference in the second half of the game.