Argentina were champions again last night as they scored three times against nil to clinch the trophy ahead of their counterpart, Italy. Messi’s run and cross set up the opener for Lautaro Martinez, who then turned provider for Di Maria to chip a second. Paulo Dybala came on as a substitute to round off a handsome win in injury time.
The Argentine team at Wembley showcased a host of elite global talent, including a stellar front three of Di Maria, Martinez and Messi, who were a menace throughout with their movement and neat interplay.
Di Maria and Messi truly stood out, however, staging their own mini contest with Paris St-Germain club-mate and Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma in what became an increasingly one-sided affair.
Goals by Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala ensured the Copa America champions were able to celebrate more trophy delight by triumphing in the Finalissima after ending their 28-year wait for silverware last summer.
It is 36 years since Argentina won the World Cup and, Messi, despite having a tough time in Paris stunned the world again with his talismanic displays last night.
This was the third edition of the Cup of Champions with two previous matches in 1985 and 1993, the latter being won by Argentina to effectively mean they were defending their title after UEFA and CONMEBOL’s recent partnership brought the clash back to life.
The CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions, previously known officially as the European/South American Nations Cup and commonly as the Artemio Franchi Cup, is an official super cup football match organised by UEFA and CONMEBOL and contested by the winners of the UEFA European Championship and the Copa América.
