Messi stars in Argentina victory over Italy in La Finalissima as South American champions defeat European rivals
Lionel Messi was the star of the show as Argentina ran out 3-0 winners against Italy in La Finalissima on Wednesday.
Copa America 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.
Lionel Messi shines as Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala goals hand Argentina Finalissima win over Italy
Copa America champions Argentina comfortably defeated European Championship winners Italy 3-0 to take the Finalissima at Wembley. Lautaro Martinez and Angel Di Maria were on target as Lionel Scaloni’s side secured the ‘Cup of Champions’ — it is the second time La Albiceleste have won the trophy after defeating Denmark way back in 1993, the last time the competition was held.
Is Italy vs Argentina on TV? Kick-off time, channel and how to watch Cup of Champions
Euro 2020 winners Italy take on Argentina, 2021 Copa America victors, in a clash of continental champions to decide the first Artemio Franchi Cup winners in nearly 30 years.
Peru & Colombia appeared to team up to eliminate Chile from the 2018 World Cup
Peru are one of the nations battling to reach the 2022 FIFA World Cup over the next couple of weeks.
World Cup: When Peru & Colombia appeared to team up to eliminate Chile in 2018
Peru are one of the nations battling to reach the 2022 FIFA World Cup over the next couple of weeks.
Italy look to rebuild by winning 'Finalissima' as first step
Italy will look to put the disappointment of failing to qualify for the World Cup behind them and kick-start a new era for the Azzurri by beating Argentina in the 'Finalissima', Italy players said on Tuesday.