World Cup News: Greece Skipper Retires from International Football

Greece skipper Giorgios Karagounis announced his retirement from international football following their round-of-16 exit at the World Cup in the hands of Costa Rica on Sunday.

"This was my last game for Greece," said Karagounis.

"We wanted to stay in Brazil another week or even longer but you can't change it now."

The Galanolefki surprisingly made it through to the second round ahead of one of Group C's favourites Japan, with Colombia placing first.

The 37-year-old's future at club level is yet to be determined after Premier League's Fulham opted to let go of him.

He has received 139 caps, while registering 10 goals, since making his debut in 1999.

The former Panathinaikos man is optimistic that his national side will be able to sustain what has been started this year.

"The national team has grown up, younger players have won invaluable experiences," he added.

"This is no small thing and as we helped the team come of age we hope it will continue to be as successful in the future."

For more football news, follow IBTimes Sport on Twitter.