Conquering the new world.

Last night Argentina made clear its intention to win once again the Copa America, a title they have not won since 1993. They will now face Brazil in Sunday's final after cruising past a strong Mexican team by three goals to nil.

Until last night Mexico looked as though they could be Argentina's greatest threat in the tournament, even more so than a second string Brazil side that has only impressed on rare occasions. Mexico cruised through their group, with a 2-0 victory over Brazil included, and thumped Paraguay 6-0 in the quarter final. This was the kind of run Hugo Sanchez needed after failing to impress since taking over as coach. A poor run of form and much criticism from the press had the former goal-scoring legend under pressure, but he now looks to be putting together a strong team.

However, in spite of this improvement, a full strenghth Argentina proved far too much for Hugo Sanchez's side. After an even first half in which Mexico hit the woodwork, a goal in the 44th minute from Gabriel Heinze changed the course of the game. It was realatively plain sailing for Argentina after that with Riquelme adding a second from the penalty spot, followed shortly by a moment of pure indulgence as Leo Messi chipped the goalkeeper with the kind of class only seen amongst the game's greats.

Leo Messi brilliantly chips goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez to make it 3-0.

This Argentina team has a look of real quality about, it and we wait and see if they have the nerve to maintain the form against their traditional rivals Brazil. If they succeed, these could be the foundations of a side that already looks like it could mount a serious challenge for the 2010 World Cup under Adolfo Basile. A side with experience at the back, has a very youthful, yet experienced look about it throughout. The hard working Javier Mascherano in midfield looks re-born after a succesful period at Liverpool. Roman Riquelme is once again pulling the strings and his understanding with the tenacious Tevez is telepathic. These two combine with and complement perfectly the young genious Leo Messi, who has really come of age at this tournament. These players and a strong bench make up what could be Argentina's strongest squad since the one that beat Mexico in the final of this same tournament 14 years ago.

A lot can happen in three years, especially in football, but a victory in Sundays final versus Brazil could be the springboard this young side needs to develop into a trully great team.