ON THIS DAY: Messi retires from international football in 2016

On this day in 2016, Lionel Messi anunced his retirement from international football after Argentina lost to Chile on penalties following a 0-0 draw in Copa America final at MetLife Stium in East Ruford, New Jersey, USA.

It was Argentina's third defeat in as many years in a final – y lost to Germany in extra time in 2014 World Cup and again to Chile on penalties in Copa America following year.

Barcelona star, who up to that point h scored 55 goals in 113 international appearances, reversed his decision shortly after and helped Argentina to qualify for 2018 World Cup, where two-time world champions were defeated 4-3 by France in round of 16.

Messi has won a FIFA Under 20 World Cup in 2005 and 2008 Summer Olympics with Under 23 team, but has never claimed a major trophy with senior squ.

Im credits: AP