For Argentina, it was a moment of jubilation but particularly of relief for the squad's older members who have endured final defeat three times in the last decade.
Former Reds winger Angel di Maria delicately lobbed Ederson midway into the first half to put La Albiceleste ahead and in a commanding position.
It would prove the only goal of the game, leaving Argentina as champions despite a surprising miss from Messi when one-on-one with the Brazil goalkeeper.
Having conceded in the first half, Brazil sought to find something different and so Fred, after a fine tournament in which he has proved crucial to the Seleção, was replaced by Roberto Firmino at half-time.