For a young Venezuelan team on the rise, a surprisingly successful Copa America journey by Canada is now faced with a big hurdle. The latter beat expectations regarding ending up in the group with world cup winners Argentina and will now face different type of opponents.
Canada’s Defense Embraces Venezuela’s Attack
With Jesse Marsch as the new coach, Canada has turned into an institution where defense has been well-established to concede just one goal in the group stages. Moïse Bombito and Derek Cornelius have both been instrumental at centre-back along with Maxime Crépeau who remains outstanding as the goalkeeper throughout this time. However, it should be noted that their front struggles continue to bother them since they have only found the net once so far in this tournament.
On the other hand, Venezuela boasts of a strong attack and solid backline; Salomón Rondón alongside winger Eduard Bello both exuding two goals each during this year’s tourney among other youthful players. In fact, they play fearless attacking football while having rock-solid qualities at their back.
Buchanan’s Absence a Major Setback
Moreover, Tajon Buchanan will miss Canada’s next match after fracturing his tibia in training. Marsch will too have to find another player who can’t get away from him as there are no dynamic replacements for Buchanan’s style of play.
A Clash Of Styles And Ambitions
This quarter final match guarantees an interesting clash of styles and ambitions. It is going to be hard for Canada’s defensive resilience against Venezuela offensive flair. While Canadians seek to go beyond their wildest dreams about this showdown, Venezuelans are hoping to consolidate recent progressions made in South America and reach semi-finals.
Historical Context
Canada has played two times against Venezuela and never defeated her hence drawing all matches together before this current Copa America quarter-final. It will be their first competitive encounter which adds more interest to this tie.
Projected Lineups
Canada is likely to play in a 4-4-2 formation with Johnston, Laryea, Davies and Millar supporting David and Larin as the two attackers. On the other hand, Bello, Savarino and Soteldo will support Rondón upfront while Herrera and Herrera are expected to line up in a position of defensive midfielders with a double pivot. Venezuela is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation.
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The Verdict
Venezuela presents an entirely different challenge compared to Canada’s previous opponents albeit exceeding expectations so far. The absence of Buchanan and their offensive struggles could prove costly. Perhaps Venezuela’s youthful energy mixed with attacking instincts might be just enough to edge out Canadians at this important stage of the competition.
Tune In!
Be sure not to miss this exciting quarterfinal between Canada and Venezuela at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on June 26th kicking off at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. The match promises entertainment as it is anticipated that it will determine greatly how these teams perform going forward in Copa America championships.