The Chelsea star has shone in Argentina, leading the way with goals, and now he and his nation are just one game away from lifting the trophy following their semi-final win over South Korea in La Plata last night.

The midfielder opened the scoring in the 2-1 win in spectacular fashion, running onto a cutback before side-footing into the top corner from the edge of the area and leaving the goalkeeper with no chance after 14 minutes.

That goal was his seventh in the tournament and keeps him on course to land the golden boot award.

The Italian’s joy was short-lived, however, as just five minutes later a penalty was awarded. After a lengthy pause while the officials consulted VAR, Seung-Won Lee duly converted the spot-kick high into the corner.

Both sides pushed for a winner but it was Italy who were victorious just as the tie looked destined for extra-time. A stunning Simone Pafundi free-kick left the South Korea goalkeeper with no chance and sent Casadei and his team-mates into raptures, as they secured their place in Sunday’s final where they will meet Uruguay.