Finalissima 2022: Argentina Triumphs Over Italy at Wembley
On June 1, 2022, the football world witnessed a clash of titans as the champions of Europe and South America met for the Finalissima. This prestigious intercontinental match brought together Italy, the winners of UEFA Euro 2020, and Argentina, the victors of the 2021 Copa América. Held under a clear night sky at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London, the event served as a high-stakes revival of a historic football tradition.
The match was more than just a game; it was the first edition rebranded as the Finalissima (Italian for "grand final"), marking a renewed partnership between UEFA and CONMEBOL. Argentina entered the match as defending champions of the previous iteration of this concept, and they lived up to their reputation with a commanding 3–0 victory.
Key Facts
- Final Score: Argentina 3, Italy 0.
- Date: June 1, 2022.
- Venue: Wembley Stadium, London.
- Man of the Match: Lionel Messi (Argentina).
- Attendance: 87,112 spectators.
- Goal Scorers: Lautaro Martínez, Ángel Di María, and Paulo Dybala.
The Road to the Finalissima
The Finalissima is the modern successor to the Artemio Franchi Cup, a competition last played 29 years prior in 1993. Originally designed as the national team equivalent to the club-level Intercontinental Cup, the Franchi Cup saw France win in 1985 and Argentina win in 1993 before being discontinued.
The revival began with a memorandum of understanding signed between UEFA and CONMEBOL in February 2020 to enhance cooperation. This agreement led to the creation of the "CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions," which was later rebranded as the Finalissima. The brand identity, revealed in March 2022, featured a laurel wreath—a symbol of victory—with ribbons representing the national colors of both Italy and Argentina.
The Contenders: Italy and Argentina
Both teams entered the match with immense pedigree. Italy qualified by winning UEFA Euro 2020 (played in 2021), where they defeated England on penalties. Argentina qualified by securing a record-equalling 15th Copa América title in 2021, ending a 28-year trophy drought.
| Team | Confederation | Qualification | FIFA Ranking (March 2022) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Italy | UEFA | Winners of UEFA Euro 2020 | 6 |
| Argentina | CONMEBOL | Winners of 2021 Copa América | 4 |
Squads and Management
Italy, managed by Roberto Mancini, finalized a squad of 23 players after considering a preliminary list of 45. Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, similarly narrowed their selection from a 35-man preliminary list to a final 23-player roster.
Match Analysis and Results
The match was officiated by Chilean referee Piero Maza, marking his first senior international fixture as a lead referee. From the outset, Argentina demonstrated superior control, maintaining 55% ball possession and creating significantly more opportunities than the Italians.
Argentina took the lead in the 28th minute through Lautaro Martínez. They doubled their advantage just before halftime with a goal from Ángel Di María in first-half stoppage time (45+1'). Italy struggled to break through the Argentine defense, managing only three shots on target throughout the entire game. The victory was sealed in the final moments of the match when Paulo Dybala scored in the 94th minute.
Statistical Breakdown
- Total Shots: Argentina 17, Italy 7.
- Shots on Target: Argentina 9, Italy 3.
- Saves: Italy 6, Argentina 3.
- Fouls: Argentina 16, Italy 13.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Finalissima?
The Finalissima is an intercontinental football match played between the winners of the UEFA European Championship and the CONMEBOL Copa América.
Who won the 2022 Finalissima?
Argentina won the 2022 Finalissima, defeating Italy with a final score of 3–0.
Where was the match played?
The match took place at Wembley Stadium in London, England.
Who was named Man of the Match?
Lionel Messi was named the official Man of the Match for his performance leading Argentina to victory.
What is the history behind this competition?
The Finalissima is a revival of the Artemio Franchi Cup, which was previously played in 1985 and 1993 before being discontinued for nearly three decades.