Finalissima 2022: Italy vs. Argentina Recap

A Thrilling Intercontinental Clash

The Finalissima 2022, the third edition of the CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions, lived up to expectations as Italy and Argentina faced off at Wembley Stadium in London. The match pitted the winners of UEFA Euro 2020 (held in 2021) and the 2021 Copa América against each other.

Argentina's Dominance

From the kickoff, Argentina seized control of the match. Their high-pressing style suffocated Italy's midfield, and their quick passing created numerous chances. In the 28th minute, Lautaro Martínez opened the scoring with a clinical finish after a lightning-fast counter-attack.

Argentina continued to dominate in the second half, with Lionel Messi pulling the strings in midfield. Ángel Di María doubled their lead in the 45th minute with a beautiful curling shot from outside the box. Paulo Dybala wrapped up the victory in the 94th minute with a cool finish to make it 3-0.

Italy's Frustration

Italy found it difficult to cope with Argentina's intensity and creativity. Their usually-solid defense was exposed by Argentina's incisive passing and movement, and they failed to create any meaningful chances throughout the match.

Italy's frustration boiled over in the 56th minute when Gianluigi Donnarumma received a red card for a foul on Messi. The dismissal further weakened Italy's chances of getting back into the match.

Argentina's Triumph

Argentina's victory in the Finalissima 2022 was a fitting reward for their impressive form of late. They have now won three major trophies in the past three years, including the Copa América in 2021 and the World Cup in 2022. This victory also marked Messi's first-ever title with the Argentine national team.

For Italy, the defeat was a disappointing end to a disappointing year. They have failed to live up to expectations since winning the European Championship in 2021, and they will need to regroup and improve if they want to challenge for major honors in the future.