LONDON: Argentina’s captain Lionel Messi and Angel di Maria starred as the South American champion defeated the reigning Europe champion Italy by 3-0 at Wembley Stadium on Monday.

In a match dubbed the ‘Finalissima’ between the reigning champs of South America and Europe, Argentina displayed complete dominance over struggling Italy.

Lautaro Martinez scored the opener for Argentina in the 28th minute following a brilliant assist from his captain Messi. Martinez then switched the role with Messi as he served Angel Di Maria, who dodged Italy’s goalkeeper Gigi Donnarumma to score the second goal for his side just before the half-time.

Argentina, which dominated the first half of the fame, appeared more lethal in the second as Messi and Di Maria displayed sheer brilliance as they continued to create chance after chance.

Donnarumma, on the other hand, initially did well to thwart the repeated chances, but eventually fell short as he could not stop Paulo Dybala, who slotted home the ball in the 94th minute following a Messi assist which left him with the ball at his feet in the Italian box.

Dybala’s strike took Argentina’s tally to three, while Italy remained unable to net the ball despite the extra time.

It is pertinent to mention here that the four-time world champions Italy will not be participating in the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 as they tripped in the playoffs of the qualifiers despite being the reigning Euro 2021 champion.

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