Messi: We Had Our Chances - 2014 World Cup Semifinals

Lionel Messi, chosen best player of the tournament, analyses the game in the mixed zone after losing 0-1 in the extra time against Germany in the final of the FIFA World Cup

[ Related: 2014 World Cup Photos - Argentina vs Germany ]

Argentine Coach Congratulatory in Defeat

"When there are chances in a game that is so evenly balanced, you have to take them," Argentina's coach Alejandro Sabella said. "We lacked a bit of efficiency."

Sabella praised his team for staying even with Germany for so long after a tough semifinal against the Netherlands. Argentina won that game in a penalty shootout, 4-2, after a scoreless draw.

"The only thing I can do is congratulate my players," Sabella said. "The work they did was extraordinary, and (I) also congratulate Germany."

The Argentines went undefeated in the World Cup until the championship game. They played Germany without speedy winger Angel Di Maria, who was out with a thigh injury.

In addition to the award to Messi and Neuer, Colombia's James Rodriguez won the Golden Boot award as the tournament's top scorer with six goals.

In a symbolic gesture before the game, Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Sepp Blatter, president of football's world governing body, FIFA, took part in a World Cup handover ceremony. Russia will host the 2018 World Cup.

 

More WORLD CUP SOCCER ...

 

Article: Copyright ©, iHaveNet.com

"Messi: We Had Our Chances "