Chilean Supporter To Auction Off The Missed Penalty Ball That Led To Messi�s Retirement

THE ball which Lionel Messi missed his Copa America penalty with is being sold by a fan because he is terrified it may attract burglars.

And the Chilean who caught it is set to rake in at least £23,000 from auction. Lucky supporter Pedro Vasquez told Marca: “The truth is that if the ball becomes any more valuable, it would be a risk to have it in my house.

“I could sell it, it would depend on the circumstances.

“It is nice to have the ball, but if it keeps rising in price, I’ll sell.”

Argentina ace Messi, 29, sensationally quit international football after his country were beaten 4-2 in the shootout by Chile. Speaking after the match, he said: “For me the national team is over. I’ve done all I can, it hurts not to be a champion.

“My thinking right now and thinking about it in the locker room, I’m done playing with the national team. “I tried my hardest. It’s been four finals and I was not able to win.

“I tried everything possible; it hurts me more than anyone, but it is evident that this is not for me.

“I want more than anyone to win a title with the national team, but unfortunately it did not happen.” It was the fourth final in five years in which the Barcelona star had failed his nation.

Argentina lost to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final, were thwarted by Chile last time out in the South American competition, and beaten by Brazil in the previous year.