ALEXIS MAC ALLISTER was on the bench as Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to Finalissima success with a 3-0 win over Italy at a sold-out and partisan Wembley Stadium.

The Albion man did not manage to get on the pitch, but has added a medal to his collection thanks to goals by Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria and Paulo Dybala ensuring the Copa America champions were able to celebrate more trophy delight after ending their 28-year wait for silverware last summer.

Messi made the opener and on multiple occasions thrilled the 87,112 crowd with flashes of brilliance to show there is plenty of life in the Argentina captain yet despite a difficult season in France.

This was the third edition of the ‘Cup of Champions’ with two previous matches in 1985 and 1993, the latter being won by Argentina to effectively mean they were defending their title after UEFA and CONMEBOL’s recent partnership brought the clash back to life.

Tickets for the Wembley showpiece sold out in April and judging by the noise the majority had gone to South Americans, who produced thunderous roars throughout and especially when their hero was in possession.

After the win, Mac Allister took to social media to celebrate, posting a picture of the jubilations on Instagram with the tag: "CHAMPIONS!!"