Argentina dismantle Verratti-less Italy to lift the Finalissima trophy

(Football news) Copa America winners Argentina defeated Euro winners Italy 3-0 to claim the Finalissima trophy. Italy were well and truly outplayed by Lionel Messi and company at the Wembley stadium. Italy didn't create a single clear goalscoring chance while Argentina were on their A game for the entire 90 minutes. The Finalissima as a whole can be considered a success which should make it a regular occurrence with the next one set to be in 2025. This was Italian captain Giorgio Chiellini's last game for his country as he announced his retirement before the clash. An injury kept Marco Verratti out of the team which ended up costing Italy a lot.

Italy had a couple of decent chances in the early minutes of the first half. Argentina found their feet little by little and got the first goal via Lautaro Martinez. Lionel Messi after a fantastic run set it up on a plate for Martinez. In injury time of the first half, Martinez played a inch perfect through ball to Angel Di Maria who out paced Chiellini before chipping Gianluigi Donnarumma to double Argentina's lead. Chiellini's last international game didn't go to plan as he was subbed off at half time along with two others. Roberto Mancini tried to turn things around but Argentina were just too good. The South American team had so many chances to make it three but the European champions held on. Paulo Dybala got the 3rd goal with the last kick of the game.

This generation of Argentina has somewhat underperformed at big tournaments but things have changed. The main thing that has changed is the workrate of these players has been incredible and the defense is more solid than ever. Argentina has put the world on notice that they are amongst the favorites for the Qatar World Cup. Messi now has two international trophies in his cabinet which is the same as his long term rival Cristiano Ronaldo. It was another heartbreak for Italy who now desperately need a rebuild. The UEFA Nations League presents them with a good opportunity to start the process. 

Also read: Bayern Munich announce Corentin Tolisso's departure

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