Second-string Wales beaten by Poland in Nations League
WROCLAW, POLAND: Wales warmed up for their decisive World Cup qualifying playoff this weekend by losing 2-1 with a second-string team in Poland in the UEFA Nations League on Wednesday.
Argentina Sport News
Messi stars as Argentina beat Italy in Finalissima
LONDON: Lionel Messi stole the show as Copa America holders Argentina powered to a 3-0 win against European champions Italy in the Finalissima at Wembley on Wednesday. Inspired by the peerless Messi, Argentina raced into a two-goal lead in the first half of the prestigious friendly thanks to strikes from Lautaro Martinez and Angel Di Maria. Paulo Dybala capped Argentina’s rout, but after a disappointing season with Paris Saint-Germain by his sky-high standards, it was the sight of Messi back to his imperious best that took the spotlight. The 34-year-old’s eye-catching display featured two assists and was worthy of his rare appearance at one of football’s great cathedrals. It was another memorable moment for Argentina, who have qualified for this year’s World Cup as they extend the golden afterglow from the victory over Brazil that ended their 28-year wait to win the Copa America in 2021. Argentina were already established as one of the leading contenders to win the World Cup and defeating Italy was another statement of intent from La Albiceleste, who are now unbeaten in 32 matches. If Messi can play at this level in Qatar, Lionel Scaloni’s side will be a force to be reckoned with as they chase a first World Cup title since 1986.
Watch: Argentina Legend Lionel Messi Meets And Greets Italy Players Ahead of Finalissima
European champions Italy face the South American continental champions Argentina in the inaugural Finalissima at Wembley on Wednesday, a match where veteran Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini is set to win his 117th and last cap. Italy manager Roberto Mancini is likely to include a number of his Euro 2020 stars in the starting XI for a match he has said represents the "end of a cycle" following the shock failure of the four-time winners to qualify for this year's World Cup finals in Qatar.
Italy vs England, Finalissima Preview: Giorgio Chiellini Set For "Beautiful" End To Italy Career At Wembley
Giorgio Chiellini believes it will be "beautiful" to end his international career against Argentina at Wembley on Wednesday after leading Italy to Euro 2020 glory at the London ground last year. The now 37-year-old was a key figure, both as captain and defender, when Italy beat hosts England on penalties in the final of a tournament that was delayed some 12 months by the coronavirus pandemic. Now the Azzurri face the South American continental champions in the inaugural Finalissima at Wembley on Wednesday, a match where Chiellini is set to win his 117th and last cap.
Italy vs Argentina, Finalissima: When And Where To Watch Live Telecast, Live Streaming
European champions Italy will take South American champions Argentina in the inaugural Finalissima at the Wembley Stadium in London on Thursday. Italy, who have failed to qualify for this year's FIFA World Cup, won Euro 2020 at the same venue after beating England in the final. Argentina, on the other hand, won their record-equalling 15th Copa America, and the first since 1993, after beating arch-rivals Brazil 1-0 at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro. Italy skipper and veteran defender Giorgio Chiellini will also bid adieu to international football after this game.
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez dismisses concerns about his fitness
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has dismissed concerns about his fitness after he missed the final game of the Premier League season.
Blitzboks off to a much-needed winning start as they down top-seeded Pumas at London Sevens
After a weekend to forget at the Toulouse Sevens last week, the Blitzboks bounced back in London with a breathless 26-19 win over top-seeds Argentina.