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.

Ad/> Italy — returning to the scene where they were crowned champions of Europe last year thanks to their defensive resilience and excellent organisation — were undone by Lionel Messi’s genius as he created the opening goal, taking out Giovanni Di Lorenzo before laying it on a plate for Martinez. Football‘His head works faster’ — De Paul says Messi operates on a different level04/04/2022 AT 16:10 Di Maria doubled Argentina’s advantage on the stroke of half-time, outpacing Giorgio Chiellini – who was hooked at half-time on his final appearance for his country – to latch onto Martinez’s through ball and lift it over the onrushing Gianluigi Donnarumma.

At the death Paulo Dybala added a third, and it was a rich reward for Argentina's dominant performance. More to follow.