BEIJING, China - Diego Tardelli scored twice to lead Brazil to a 2-0 win over Argentina in a friendly on Saturday, with Lionel Messi missing a penalty that would have tied the game in the first half.

Tardelli volleyed home the opening goal in the 28th minute at the Bird's Nest. Messi had a chance to level in the 41st after Angel Di Maria was fouled in the area, but his penalty was saved by Brazil goalkeeper Jefferson.

"If I had scored, everything would've changed, it would've been a new game," Messi said. "They wanted to defend and counterattack.

"The team is going through changes, with a new coach who has a different idea than the previous one. We're trying new things, and that requires training, time, games, and little by little the team will reach its level and will get what it wants."

Tardelli scored his second after a goalmouth scramble in the 64th, heading the ball past Sergio Romero to seal the win.

Brazil has won three straight games under coach Dunga after a disappointing end to the World Cup. Veterans Kaka and Robinho both came on as late substitutes.