Argentina skipper Lionel Messi described their 1-1 draw against Chile as a “complicated” affair at the 2021 Copa America, EKO HOT BLOG gathered.
Lionel Messi put the Sky Blues ahead with a wonderful free-kick before Eduardo Vargas equalized from a rebound off Arturo Vidal’s missed penalty.
Having clashed in a World Cup qualifying game just over 10 days ago, the sides were expected to perform better than on that day, which yielded a dull stalemate of the same scoreline. But neither of the South American heavyweights really rose to the challenge.
Messi lifted a superb free-kick 33 minutes into the match which provided a moment to savor in an otherwise cagey opening stanza, before Chile’s penalty incident sparked some life back into the game.
Nicolas Tagliafico brought down Vidal inside the box for which the referee awarded a penalty to Chile after consulting the pitchside monitor.
READ ALSO: Germany Host France In A Blockbuster Group F Clash At Euro 2020 [Team News]
The Inter Milan star stepped up to take it but saw his poor attempt parried across the crossbar, though Eduardo Vargas showed quick steps to pounce on the rebound and nodded the ball home.
Once again, the match official had to make a VAR check and La Roja were level.
With few clear-cut chances at either end, the game unsurprisingly ended with no change in the scoreline as Argentina and Chile settled for a point each.
After the game, Lionel Messi accepted the fact that the missed opportunities cost Argentina two points against Chile. However, the six-time Ballon d’Or winner wants Argentina to look ahead and focus on their next game against Uruguay.
Lionel Messi said:
“The game was complicated. We lacked calmness, having control of the ball and playing faster. The penalty changed the game. We wanted to start winning.
Now we have Uruguay, which is also going to be difficult. But hey, we have to think about the next match now.”
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE THIS
Governor Makinde appoints new Alaafin of Oyo. Prince Owoade's impressive educational and career journey. Oyomesi…
Prince Abimbola Owoade was appointed today as the new Alaafin of Oyo The selection process…
Bichi addressed his supporters upon his return from Saudi Arabia He was relieved of his…