Brazil-Argentina rivalry rekindled: Why Saturday's Copa America final pitting Neymar vs. Messi is must-see TV

The Brazil-Argentina rivalry transcends the sport, and a new chapter will be written Saturday at Maracanã Stadium

Earlier this week, after beating Peru in the semifinals of this summer's Copa América, Neymar Jr. -- the undoubted star of Brazil's national team -- glistening with postgame sweat, was asked who he wanted for the final. Without skipping a beat, he smiled and said, "I want Argentina." Despite the clear indication that part of it was because he wanted to face his friend and former teammate Lionel Messi, Neymar was speaking on behalf of not just the squad or the nation, but also every lover of the beautiful game around the world.  Brazil against Argentina, three words that come out of any fan's mouth so effortlessly, a rivalry that transcends statistics and is fueled with history, creating over the years a proverbial photo album of who's who of South American royalty, granted Neymar's wish and will indeed play the protagonist at Maracanã Stadium on Saturday night.