With the first wave of free agency coming to an end, all eyes, at least for one evening, were on Canada’s men’s national soccer team. Sidney Crosby got in on the fun, as Canada defeated Venezuela on penalties to advance to the semifinals of the Copa America, South America’s continental tournament.

Canada will now square off against Argentina in Tuesday’s semifinal. It will be an uphill battle as Argentina, the defending Copa America and World Cup champions, have lost two competitive matches in four years. Lionel Messi has excelled in his role as an attacking midfielder. This is a momentous occasion for the Canadian program and Crosby was all too happy to join the winning squad on Friday night at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas — home of the Dallas Cowboys.

Crosby entered the room with a red Canada kit on and shook hands with all of the players, while receiving a raucous greeting.

“I just want to thank you guys. That was an incredible experience for me. To see that game live, the penalty kicks were insane. Huge guts to put that one in. Incredible, we’re cheering for you guys. That was awesome to be a part of. Really proud of you guys,” Crosby said, before being his speech was drowned out by roaring cheers from the room.

Jacob Shaffelburg, who scored Canada’s goal, and has been one of the breakout stars with the tournament, was among the players who got a photo with Crosby.

Crosby quite obviously knows what it means to represent your country on the international stage as his Golden Goal against the United States in 2010 has been lionized, celebrated and embedded into Canada’s national memory. It was a monumental evening for the Canadian men’s national team program and Crosby was thrilled to lend his support to his comrades.