Chile Won Copa Final After Defeating Argentina

Chile defeated Argentina on penalties here Saturday to end their 99-year wait for a Copa America crown and condemn Lionel Messi to a second straight heartbreak in a major international final.

Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez struck the winning spot-kick for Chile, as the hosts clinched a 4-1 shoot-out victory when the game ended goalless after extra time.

Sanchez chipped the decisive penalty down the middle past Sergio Romero to spark wild celebrations in front of a 45 000 capacity crowd at the Estadio Nacional in Santiago.

Chile took control of the shoot-out when Gonzalo Higuain blazed his penalty over the bar before Chile goalkeeper Claudio Bravo saved Ever Banega’s spot-kick.

Argentina captain Messi, aiming to inspire the South American giants to a first international title in 22 years, could only look on distraught as Chile celebrated.

Chile’s win was their first ever victory over Argentina in the Copa America.

“It is a dream come true. We have worked so hard for this,” said Chile star Arturo Vidal.

Source: dailyindependentnig