Football. At its best.
Two summers now for Argentina have ended in agonising misery.
If they hadn’t come so close to winning the World Cup and Copa America, it would’ve been easier.
And, for Lionel Messi, treble champion with his club or not, he felt the full force of the penalty defeat to Chile.
The Barcelona man tucked his penalty away in the shootout – of course he did – but he was the only Argentine to do so as they lost 4-1 in the shootout.
But, as Messi sat speechless on the Santiago pitch after the game and watched on as Chile celebrated euphorically, a young Chilean showed just what football is all about.
And, when it comes to Lionel Messi, it doesn’t matter what team he plays for. He’s adored. He’s revered. He’s loved.
Even a Chile man couldn’t bare to see him sad and he still wanted a picture with his favourite footballer.
Who, with typical class, obliged. Even in a tough moment.
Soz for being a saddo, but this is proper sweet… http://t.co/SesqLtqyZO
— Nooruddean (@BeardedGenius) July 4, 2015