Lionel Messi Leaves Copa América Final in Tears
A tearful farewell for Argentina’s legendary "10" as Messi leaves the field injured.
In a dramatic turn of events at the Copa América 2024 final, Argentina’s captain and football legend, Lionel Messi, left the field in tears after suffering a severe ankle injury.
The Argentina skipper went down in the 64th minute as he twisted his right ankle while attempting to recover the ball from Colombia's Luis Díaz. Messi was seen writhing in pain before being replaced by Nicolás González. This unexpected exit left the Albiceleste without their iconic number 10.
Messi’s injury couldn’t have come at a worse time, with Colombia gaining momentum on the field. His departure, accompanied by the supportive chants of the crowd, broke the hearts of fans worldwide. This injury not only dashed Messi's hopes of contributing to Argentina's victory but also raises questions about the future of his international career.
The final ended 0-0 in regulation time, but Argentina triumphed thanks to Lautaro Martinez’s winning goal in the 112th minute. Martinez dedicated his goal to Messi, sprinting towards him in celebration.
Messi’s fall was a painful sight as he signaled for help immediately. The 37-year-old covered his face in tears on the sideline, with his heavily swollen ankle strapped with an ice pack. Earlier in the match, Messi had another scare in the 36th minute, grimacing in pain after an awkward landing during a challenge with Colombia’s Santiago Arias. Despite briefly leaving the field, he returned to continue playing.
Messi crying after being subbed off due to his injury… 😭💔#beINSPORTS #CopaAmerica
— beIN SPORTS USA (@beINSPORTSUSA) July 15, 2024
🎥 @FoxSoccer
pic.twitter.com/3rVtynlV0J
Messi had been battling leg injuries throughout the tournament, missing Argentina’s group stage finale. Despite his struggles, he assured fans he was fit for the final. “Against Chile, I had an adductor problem. I wasn’t comfortable, and it slowed me down. By the quarterfinals versus Ecuador, I felt better, and I was ready for the final,” Messi told DSports on Saturday.
The final's kickoff was delayed by over an hour due to crowd issues, including fans breaching security gates. Social media videos showed fans, mainly in Colombia’s yellow and red, jumping over railings and bypassing security. The chaotic scenes included screams and people seeking medical help in the sweltering South Florida heat.
As Messi’s painful exit from the Copa América final continues to resonate, the football world rallies around one of its greatest players, hoping for his swift recovery and a possible return to the international stage.
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