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Defending champions Argentina reach Olympic final

19/08/2008

Argentina have reached the final of the Olympic football tournament after beating rival's Brazil 3-0 in a bad-tempered semi-final.

The reigning Olympic champions took the lead in the 53rd minute when Sergio Aguero chested in a cross-shot from Angel di Maria.

Aguero made it two just four minutes later with a simple tap-in from Real Madrid new signing Ezequiel Garay's low cross.

Brazil, who finished the game with nine men, rarely threatened the Argentine goals.

Ronaldinho came closest when his free-kick hit the post. His AC Milan team-mate Alexandre Pato put away the rebound but was adjudged to be offside.

Argentina got the third when Juan Riquelme converted a penalty.

Liverpool's Lucas Leiva received a straight red card for a foul on his Anfield team-mate Javier Mascherano.

Thiago Neves saw red moments later – also for a foul on Mascherano – as Brazil lost their composure.

Arsenal will now defend their title against Nigeria, who demolished Belgium 4-1 in the other semi-final, in Saturday's final.