Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni paid tribute to his players after the reigning world champions reached the Copa America final with a 2-0 victory over Canada on Tuesday.

The Albiceleste will vie for a third major trophy in as many attempts when they meet either Colombia or Uruguay at MetLife Stadium - the scene of Tuesday's victory - in the title decider on Sunday.

"It's very difficult to get to another final," Scaloni said after the semifinal win. "It's been doubly as hard to get here after everything we have been through. That's why it's a feeling of happiness but also relief."

Victory on Sunday would make Argentina the first team in history to successfully defend its Copa America crown while also holding the World Cup trophy, but Scaloni was not inclined to think too far ahead, preferring to savor his team's place in another final.

"We are going to enjoy this and then think about what is going to be a difficult match," he said. "We are in a privileged position because we have a day more to rest. We are going to use this time to recuperate and prepare as best we can for Sunday."

Scaloni said the Albiceleste were just as motivated now as they were before the 2021 Copa America final against Brazil, when they were seeking to end a 28-year major title drought.

"We have never rested on our laurels," the 46-year-old said. "These guys never become complacent, and that's what football is all about, always making an effort and finding a way to win."

"Throughout this tournament, we have always been at the level we need to be. If we haven't played our best football, it's because our opponent didn't allow us to," he added.

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