Lionel Messi says there is nothing more painful in football than losing a final, following Argentina’s loss to Chile.
The Barcelona star’s national team were defeated on penalties in the Copa America final on Saturday, following a goalless draw after extra-time in Santiago.
The 28-year-old has attracted criticism from certain quarters for his displays during the tournament, where he scored just once.
“There is nothing more painful than losing a final,” Messi wrote on his official Facebook page. “But I don’t want more time to pass without thanking everyone who always supported us and will continue supporting us in difficult moments.”
Despite being accused of failing to replicate his club form for his country, Messi was recognised as the player of the tournament. However, it is rumoured that he refused to accept the award following Argentina’s defeat at the Estadio Nacional Julio Martinez Pradanos.
