Kvist, Mascherano retire from national teams after WC exit

MOSCOW, July 02 (Agencies): Denmark midfielder William Kvist says he is retiring from the national team.

Kvist punctured a lung and broke two ribs in the Danes' World Cup-opening win against Peru. He was forced to go back to Denmark for treatment and tests but later returned to the team.

He played in 81 games for the national team, scoring two goals. He announced his decision on his Facebook page, writing, "thank you for many good years."

Meanwhile, Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano has retired from international duty following their World Cup exit.

The 34-year-old made 145 appearances for Argentina, including their dramatic 4-3 defeat by France in the last 16 on Saturday.