What is UEFA and CONMEBOL's Finalissima? How does it work, how are teams decided?

Euro 2020 champions Italy are all set to take on Copa America 2021 winners Argentina in inaugural edition of Finalissima, a one-off game between champions of both continents. blockbuster clash is set to take place later tonight, starting at 12:15 AM IST on June 2. As two heavyweights prepare to take on each or, here is a greater look at what is Finalissima and how is winner decided?

Italy vs Argentina: What is Finalissima?

CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Nations Finalissima features European champions taking on Copa America winners in a one-off match that will be played over 90 minutes, which means re will be no penalties. If scores are tied at end of full time, n match will go straight to penalties to decide winner. This fixture was set up after UEFA and CONMEBOL signed a renewed and extended Memorandum of Understanding on December 15, 2021, to increase cooperation between two.

Italy booked ir place in Finalissima after defeating England at Wembley on penalties in Euro 2020 final to claim ir second continental trophy. On or hand, Argentina reached CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Nations Finalissima after defeating arch-rivals Brazil 1-0 to end a 28-year wait to claim a trophy and also clinch a record-equalling 15th Copa America title.

Why was Finalissima introduced?

UEFA and CONMEBOL decided to introduce Finalissima to increase cooperation between two of largest football federations. After Memorandum of Understanding was signed between two associations, UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin  said in December, "We are very much looking forward to exploring new opportunities toger and we are eagerly awaiting Finalissima in London in June 2022." This year's Finalissima will be played at iconic Wembley Stium.

European champions & Copa America winners' previous meetings

Finalissima 2022 will mark third time that European champions will meet Copa America winners. In first such meeting, France defeated Uruguay 2-0 in Paris before Argentina defeated Denmark on penalties eight years later on ir home turf at Mar del Plata.