BEIJING (AP) — Diego Tardelli scored twice Saturday to lead Brazil past Argentina 2-0 in an exhibition game in which Lionel Messi missed a penalty kick that would have tied the score in the first half.
Brazil has won three straight games under coach Dunga after a disappointing World Cup. Veterans Kaka and Robinho entered as late substitutes for Brazil.
Tardelli volleyed home the opening goal in the 28th minute at Beijing’s Bird’s Nest Olympic stadium. Messi had a chance to even the score in the 41st after Angel Di Maria was fouled in the penalty area, but his shot was saved by Brazil goalkeeper Jefferson.
“If I had scored, everything would’ve changed, it would’ve been a new game,” Messi said. “They wanted to defend and counterattack.”
Tardelli scored again after a goalmouth scramble in the 64th minute, heading the ball past Sergio Romero.
Argentina is now coached by Luis Enrique, and Messi says there will be a period of adjustment.
“The team is going through changes, with a new coach who has a different idea than the previous one,” he said. “We’re trying new things, and that requires training, time, games, and little by little the team will reach its level and will get what it wants.”
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