Lionel Messi may have won the 2014 World Cup trophy but a heartbreak in 2014 once had him announce his retirement from international football.
Under the guidance of the late Alejandro Sabella, Argentina emerged victorious from Group F at the 2014 World Cup, defeating Belgium in the quarterfinals, the Netherlands in a penalty shootout in the semifinal, and Switzerland in the round of 16.
The last obstacle facing Argentina was an undefeated German team. Rio de Janeiro’s famed Maracana Stadium hosted the championship game.
In the game, Benedikt Howedes of Germany wasted a great opportunity to score just before halftime when his strike struck the post, and Gonzalo Higuain of Argentina missed a similar one in the first half.
Messi also had an opportunity to put Argentina ahead against Germany when he had a one-on-one with keeper Manuel Neuer, but his shot missed the mark and the score stayed at 0-0.
Thomas Muller outran the Argentine defence in the 71st minute thanks to some brilliant build-up play involving Mesut Ozil and Andre Schurrle. Sergio Romero, the Argentina custodian, won possession of the ball because he was unable to maintain control of it.
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The game proceeded into extra time with the score tied at zero. With a brilliant cross from the left wing, Schurrle sent up Mario Gotze in the 113th minute of extra time. With amazing control, Gotze chested the ball before volleying it into the net to give Germany a late lead.
Holding onto the advantage, Germany won their fourth World Cup, devastating the hearts of Argentina. Messi was still without a significant international trophy with Argentina at the time of his World Cup wait.
Retirement from international football
Messi had a strong World Cup in 2014 and took home the Golden Ball despite the eventual defeat. With four gold medals and one assist, he concluded the competition. However, a fourth defeat in a significant international competition final was too much.
Two years later, after Argentina’s 4–2 loss to Chile in the Copa America Centenario final on penalties, the ex-Barcelona player declared his retirement from international football.
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Despite his announcement, his family & teammates managed to convince him to return for international duty. Eight years later, Messi and co. won their first-ever World Cup trophy and third for Argentina.