21 June 2016•Update: 26 June 2016
NEW YORK
The U.S. and Argentina will square off Tuesday in the semifinals of the Copa America Centenario in what could be one of the highlights of the tournament between the host country and title favorites.
The two teams have met twice in the history of the tournament, which celebrates its hundredth year.
The U.S. won 3-0 against La Albiceleste, or the White and Sky Blue, in their first encounter in 1995.
Twelve years later, team USA lost 4-1 to an Argentine squad that featured one of the greatest football players of all time -- Lionel Messi.
That's the leader the Americans are facing again Tuesday and an Argentina side that currently ranks atop FIFA World rankings.
And with perennial powerhouse Brazil eliminated in the group stage, Argentina will look to complete a seamless drive to the finals.
Brazil's early exit led to the sacking of , Dunga, who was replaced Monday by Corinthians manager, Tite.
Even if they expectedly cruise past the U.S. in the semis, Argentina's relentless climb toward the trophy is nowhere near certain.
Chile, last year's champions, is playing Colombia on Wednesday for the other spot in the finals.
Chile's campaign has the highlight reel of a natural title-contender, punctuated by its total 7-0 dismantling of Mexico in the quarter-finals.
The Copa America Centenario is a special edition diverting from the usual four-year cycle of the tournament.
Held at 10 venues across the U.S., it is the first iteration being played outside of South America and marks the 100th anniversary of the competition that began in 1916.
