Lionel Messi missed a first-half penalty as Brazil beat Argentina 2-0 in a fiercely contested "Superclasico" friendly in Beijing on Saturday night.

Journeyman Diego Tardelli was the unlikely hero with his first two goals for Brazil as Messi fluffed his lines with a tame spot kick at the Bird's Nest stadium.

Atletico Mineiro striker Tardelli put Brazil ahead in the 28th minute before Messi curled his soft penalty attempt close to goalkeeper Jefferson just before halftime.