Copa America: Lionel Messi's family heckled, brother attacked during Argentina-Chile final

Members of Lionel Messi's family were attacked during Argentina's Copa America final against Chile in Santiago on Sunday.

The incident occurred just before half-time when supporters of Chile began to insult the Argentine's family.

The 28-year-old’s brother Rodrigo was hit by one fan after an angry exchange and the whole family were moved to a television cabin at half-time.

Sergio Aguero's family were also insulted by a group of Chilean fans.

Argentina lost the final 1-4 to Chile on penalties, ending a 99-year Copa America wait for Chile but lengthening their own 22-year streak without a major trophy.

Alexis Sanchez netted the clinching goal from the spot after Gonzalo Higuain and Ever Banega had missed for Argentina. The nail-biting finish came after a tense 0-0 draw in which neither side dominated and clear-cut chances were few and far between.

It was the second time in 12 months Messi had finished on the losing side in a major final following Argentina's extra-time loss to Germany at the World Cup last year. "This generation is desperate to win a title with the national team," Messi had said before this year's Copa America.

(With agency inputs)