Chile Wins Copa America


Chile Wins Copa America

TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Holder Chile stunned Argentina to win the Copa America Centenario in a penalty shoot-out on Monday.

Messi blazed a penalty over the bar in the shoot-out before Lucas Biglia missed to leave Chile's Francisco Silva with the task of stroking home the winning spot-kick in New Jersey, USA.

It was a carbon copy of last year's Copa America final, also won by Chile on penalties after a goalless draw.

This is the third defeat in a major final following losses to Germany in the 2014 World Cup and Chile in last year's Copa.

The defeat also ensured Argentina's 23-year wait for a major title.

The final had gone to penalties after finishing deadlocked at 0-0 after 120 minutes.

After the final, Messi announced his retirement from international duty.

"It's not meant for me. For me the national team is over. I've done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion," the 29-year-old said after defeat by Chile at the Copa America.

With Barcelona, Messi has won eight La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.

But his only major international honour is 2008 Olympic gold.

Argentina were beaten 1-0 in the 2014 World Cup final by Germany before two Copa America final defeats by Chile on penalties. Messi was also on the losing side against Brazil in the 2007 Copa America final.

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