Jesse Marsch revealed Canada got to learn about South American teams' 'edge and power' after guiding them to Copa America 2024 knockout stage.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Canada reaches Copa America quarter-final for the first timeFinished second in their group behind ArgentinaMarsch revealed his team learnt a lot from South American opponentsWHAT HAPPENED?

Canada made it past the group stage in their first-ever appearance at the Copa America. After losing their debut game against reigning champions Argentina, the North Americans came back strongly to register a win over Peru and then hold Chile to a goalless draw to progress to the quarter-final.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

After achieving the historic feat, manager Marsch spoke at length about the lessons they learnt during the group stage journey and how the experience of facing superior South American teams has helped them mature as a team.

WHAT JESSE MARSCH SAID

Speaking to reporters, the former Leeds manager said, "I thought we would get out of the group, I really did. I knew it would be a big challenge. Mostly, I was trying to prepare the team for the savviness and intelligence of what South American teams are.

"We've had to grow up and understand what South American edge and power and competitive will is like. We've grown, not just from a football perspective, but from a maturity perspective."

GettyWHAT NEXT FOR CANADA?

The Alphonso Davies-led side are likely to face Venezuela – who are leading the Group B table – in their maiden Copa America knockout game on July 6.