5 players whose international careers went downhill after failed penalties

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi’s career seems to have ended prematurely following the Copa

#4 Gary Lineker

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The football pundit, famous for being the face of BBC's MOTD, has always been regarded as one of England's greatest players often instrumental in pulling the team out of tight spots and scoring exactly when necessary.

In an international friendly against Brazil, Lineker was all set to equal Sir Bobby Charlton's record of 49 goals for England. Prior to the match, Lineker had 48 to his credit. So when he was fouled and stepped up to take the penalty, the conviction increased. The man looked ready to celebrate even before actually taking the kick and the cockiness cost him dearly. His shot found the Brazillian goalkeeper and though Bebeto was initially unable to hold on to the ball, he quickly recovered to deny Lineker that elusive 49th goal for England. Brazil held England to a 1-1 draw in that match.

Gary Lineker played four matches for England after this penalty and failed to score a goal in any of the matches. He retired after Euro 92.

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