Messi's best efforts not enough for Argentina in Chile draw

Argentina made it 11 matches undefeated with a 1-1 draw against Chile in a World Cup qualifying clash on Thursday night.

Lionel Messi's early penalty was cancelled out by an Alexis Sanchez strike just before half-time and despite the best efforts of the Barcelona captain, he was unable to lead his side to victory.

After a cagey opening to the match, it was Argentina who had the chance to take the lead after 24 minutes. Guillermo Maripan's foul on Lautaro Martinez was given as a penalty after a VAR review and Messi made no mistake from the spot.

However, the scores were level ten minutes later. Charles Aranguiz's freekick was cut back by Gary Medel and Sanchez was on hand to fire home, as the teams headed into the break at 1-1.

Chile continued this momentum as they took control of the game in the second half, although Messi looked the most likely to put his side ahead.

With ten minutes left, his brilliant free-kick struck the crossbar, as the match ended level, with Argentina's unbeaten streak intact.

The draw leaves Argentina in second place in the World Cup qualification table on 11 points, with Chile off the pace in seventh place, with five points.