Lionel Messi stole the show as Copa América holders Argentina powered to a 3-0 win against European champions Italy in the Finalissima at Wembley on Wednesday. –
Inspired by the peerless Messi, the Albiceleste raced into a two-goal lead in the first half of the prestigious friendly thanks to strikes from Lautaro Martínez and Ángel Di María. –
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. –
Thrown into the air by his jubilant team-mates after the final whistle, Messi said: "Today was a nice test because Italy are a great team. –
We knew it was going to be a nice game and a nice setting in which to be champions. It was a beautiful final, full of Argentines. –
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. –
"Everything changed after the Copa América. Now we are enjoying ourselves and things are happening much more easily. We are excited but must keep our feet on the ground," Di María said. –
For Italy, it was a disappointing return to Wembley 11 months after they beat England on penalties in the Euro 2020 final. –
This was only the third Finalissima contest between the respective champions of Europe and South America and the first since Diego Maradona's Argentina beat Denmark in 1993.–
Every touch from Messi lifted the decibel levels and he played a key role as Argentina took the lead in the 28th minute. –
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni categorically denied that his team are the favourites to win the Qatar 2022 World Cup after beating Italy 3-0 in the Finalissima in London on Wednesday.