Argentina beat Germany in WC final rematch

DUESSELDORF, Sept 4 (AP): Angel di Maria set up three goals and scored the fourth himself as Argentina trounced Germany 4-2 in their friendly game Wednesday to get a small measure of payback after losing to the host in the World Cup final.

Argentina was up 4-0 after just 50 minutes to dampen the home side's World Cup title celebrations in its first game since winning the final 1-0 in extra time in Brazil in July.

"It can't be revenge," Germany coach Joachim Loew said. "You can't bring the final back."

With Lionel Messi absent due to a right leg injury, Di Maria assumed the instigator's role, setting up Sergio Aguero in the 21st minute, Erik Lamela's outstanding volley in the 40th, and Federico Fernandez' headed goal two minutes after the interval.

"Angel di Maria showed why he is one of the five best players in the world," Argentina coach Gerardo Martino said.

Di Maria, who completed his move to Manchester United from Real Madrid last week, crowned his performance in the 50th with a chip over substitute Germany 'keeper Roman Weidenfeller, after a great run set up by Argentina captain Javier Mascherano.