London’s Wembley Football Temple will be the scene of a duel between the best European and South American teams. Italy will challenge Argentina in the premiere year of the Finalissima match, in which the champions of both continents will compete.
The idea of measuring the strength of teams from Europe and South America was born in the 80’s. For the first time, the teams of France and Uruguay fought for a trophy named after the Italian football official Artemio Franchi. After the Paris premiere in 1985, the home team was already better managed at that time, another year took place eight years later. The victory representing the South American federation CONMEBOL celebrated the victory, as Argentina defeated the Danes at the time.
It could be said that after almost 30 years, the Argentines will defend the position of the best team from the CONMEBOL and UEFA federations. However, the Artemia Franchi Cup did not build any tradition after 1993, and the meeting of the two continents, which probably have the loudest word in the world, is only beginning again. Unlike the mentioned years 1985 and 1993, when the host always rejoiced in the win, this time the duel will take place on neutral soil in England.
The current champions of the European Championship and the South American Copy América won the mandate for the match. Both national selections became champions of their continent last year. The Italians even celebrated the triumph on the Euro at Wembley, so the current visit to London can only evoke pleasant memories in them. He needs you, Squadra Azzura, like salt.
While less than a year ago, the entire Apennine Peninsula celebrated a great triumph, now football Italy is dominated by disappointment after coach Robert Mancini’s team did not surprisingly qualify for this year’s World Cup. Argentina, on the other hand, will not miss the Qatar World Cup. She managed the South American qualification without any problems and has been in good shape for a good three years. It was in 2019 that she found a winner for the last time.
In addition to the battle for the ruler of both federations, the London session will write another powerful story. Italian defender Giorgio Chiellini will say goodbye to his national team at Wembley. “It will be a beautiful end. Argentina has great players led by Lionel Messi. I was lucky to be able to play against him many times, often with a good result. I am glad that I can end my national team career in a match against one of the best football players history, “ introduced the icon to Juventus.
The Italians have been waiting for a victory over Argentina for 35 years. Since then, South Americans have always rejoiced in each other’s battles, including a memorable penalty shootout in the semifinals of the 1990 World Cup with the legendary Diego Maradona.
If Finalissima ends in a draw after 90 minutes, the winner will be decided directly in the penalty shootout instead of extra time.
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