Lionel Messi quits international football after Copa America defeat
Argentina forward is widely considered as one of the best footballers to ever platy the game
- The Argentines were beaten once again in a penalty shootout with Chile
- Messi misses during shootout and gives dramatic retirement interview after the game
Updated : 10:31
Football superstar Lionel Messi appears to have retired from international duty with Argentina after he missed a penalty in his side's penalty shootout defeat by Chile in the final of the 2016 Copa America.
Barcelona player Messi has scored 55 times in 112 games after he first turned out for his country eleven years ago. He has been widely considered to have been the best player of his generation, and perhaps ever.
Argentina have a lost a second successive Copa America at the hands of Chile, as well as being edged out by Germany in the final of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Argentina have a lost a second successive Copa America at the hands of Chile
"For me the national team is over. I've done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion," said Messi in an interview after the final.
"I don't think I will (return). I made up my mind. I did everything possible to win and it's done. It's four finals we lost," the 29-year-old said.
Much of his nation had hoped Messi, five-time Fifa Player of the Year, winner of four Champions League titles and eight Spanish La Liga crowns with Barcelona, would bring home their first major championship since 1993.
The game in the Metlife Stadium finished 0-0 after 120 minutes and Chile won the game 4-2 in the shootout.
At 29, Messi has chosen to retire at a very young age considering his talents, and many Argentinian fans will be hoping that his comments were made in a fit of passion, and that he will return to lead his country once again.