Nothing seems to be going the way of Italy after winning the Euro Cup last year but for Argentina, things are perking up after winning the Copa America in 2021. In the CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions (2022 Finalissima) involving Copa America and European champions, Albicelestes drowned Azzurri 3-0 to defend their intercontinental trophy. With this victory, Argentina have emerged as the competition’s most successful team by winning the cup twice. So, let us get down to three players of the South American country who shone like diamonds in the match.
Lautaro Martinez
The Argentine had an ideal setting prior to the match as he had a brilliant season with Inter Milan this year when he found the net 15 times. Obviously, his purple patch was very much on display against the European champions and Martinez made the optimum use of it. He made excellent moves, offered an assist and scored a goal as well. After opening the account for Albicelestes in the 28th minute of the match, Martinez even played an integral part in Argentina’s second goal when his extremely accurate pass was converted brilliantly by Di Maria. He was simply marvellous in the game and was truly one of the architects of Argentina’s victory against the Azzurri.
Angel Di Maria
It was another memorable outing for the 34-year-old who yet again proved his critics wrong with an exemplary show against the relentless Italian outfit. Maria was right on the money in matters of defence, produced a lot of opportunities for his team and scored a brilliant goal as well. He swelled the lead of Argentina in the extra time of the first half when he apprehended the ball quickly by overtaking Giorgino Chiellini and then chipping it over the Italian goalie Donnarumma. He looked good to net more but they were thwarted by the valiant efforts of Donnarumma. So, Maria was another player responsible for fixing the deal in favour of Argentina.
Lionel Messi
If one’s talking about Argentina, then is it possible to ignore the magical Lionel Messi? No chance whatsoever, as he proved yet again that despite the fast-approaching age his performance remains top-notch. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner dribbled with panache and dexterity, helped in devising two goals and kept the Italian goalkeeper on his toes. The “Blues” did their best to slow him down, but the legend was too good for their wile tactics and breached the Italian fortress with ease. He might not have scored a goal but Argentina would not have gone past the Italians without his commanding presence in the game. If Messi continues in this vein then he could easily end Argentina’s World Cup drought in Qatar this year.
