Nigeria, June 15 -- Argentina began their 47th Copa America campaign with a 1-1 draw against two-time champions, Chile, in the group stage opener.

This is the third time in the last 10 days that they haven't turned dominance and ball possession into wins after taking the lead twice against the Chileans but having to settle for a draw.

The Albiceleste were the superior team in the first half and could have scored at least twice through Lautaro Martinez and Nico Gonzalez, but they wasted big chances in front of goal.

Lionel Messi scored his 57th free kick as he surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo's free kick record in the 30th minutes to put Argentina ahead.

The Albiceleste went into the break in front and were clearly the better team but had a...