Lionel Messi cherishes ‘beautiful’ night for Argentina at Wembley

Lionel Messi hailed a “beautiful” night for Argentina (Zac Goodwin/PA)

Lionel Messi hailed Argentina’s “beautiful final” after they downed Italy 3-0 to claim Finalissima success at a sold-out and partisan Wembley.

The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner produced a memorable performance at England’s national stadium and provided two assists to inspire more trophy delight for his nation after last summer’s Copa America triumph had ended their 28-year wait for silverware.