Brazil's brute force faces Argentine finesse

By Brian Homewood

MARACAIBO, Venezuela (Reuters) - Argentina's finesse and artistry will be pitted against Brazil's raw physical strength and power as the old rivals meet in Sunday's Copa America final.

The tournament has produced what is generally considered the ideal final for the second time in a row and Argentina are attempting to avenge their traumatic penalty shootout defeat in Peru three years ago.

The form book is in Argentina's favour for a match which will offer an intriguing clash of styles.

Alfio Basile's team have won all their five games, scoring 16 goals, on their way to the final and played a brand of slick, attacking football which many feared was in danger of extinction.

Juan Roman Riquelme has conducted the team majestically from midfield and Lionel Messi's chipped goal against Mexico prompted a war of superlatives and comparisons with Diego Maradona.

Brazil, on the other hand, have battled their way through despite losing to Mexico in the group stage and being taken to penalties by Uruguay in the semi-final.

It is a curious case of role-swapping, as for years Argentina were considered to be ruthless and uncompromising while Brazil were seen as the artists.

CONTRASTING STYLES