Jul 14, 2024; Miami, FL, USA; Argentina forward Lionel Messi (10) reacts after leaving the match against Colombia in the second half during the Copa America Final at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
Argentina star Lionel Messi had to exit Sunday night’s Copa America final against Colombia in the 65th minute due to an apparent ankle injury.
Messi fell to the pitch and immediately called for trainers to attend to him, which they did, helping the 37-year-old to the sideline after he had remained on the field in pain for several minutes.
An emotional Messi was later shown on the bench, with Nicolas Gonzalez taking over for him.
The broadcast of the match also showed a close-up of Messi’s right foot, which was severely swollen.
Argentina and Colombia were tied 0-0 at the time of Messi’s departure.
–Field Level Media
Argentina’s star player Lionel Messi had to leave the field during the Copa America final against Colombia in the 65th minute due to an apparent ankle injury. The incident occurred on July 14, 2024, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida.
Messi, who plays as a forward for Argentina, fell to the ground and signaled for medical assistance after experiencing discomfort in his ankle. Trainers quickly attended to him and helped him off the field, with the 37-year-old visibly in pain.
An emotional Messi was later seen on the bench, watching the rest of the match as his teammate Nicolas Gonzalez took over his position on the field. The broadcast of the game also showed a close-up of Messi’s swollen right foot, indicating the severity of the injury.
At the time of Messi’s departure, Argentina and Colombia were tied 0-0 in a closely contested final. The loss of Messi, a key player for Argentina, was a significant blow to the team’s chances of securing victory in the prestigious tournament.
The incident served as a reminder of the physical toll that professional athletes endure in high-stakes competitions like the Copa America. Despite the setback, Messi’s teammates rallied to secure a hard-fought victory in his absence, showcasing the team’s resilience and determination.
As fans and analysts speculated on Messi’s recovery timeline and the impact of his absence on Argentina’s future matches, one thing was clear – the soccer world would eagerly await his return to the field, ready to witness his unparalleled talent once again.
