Lionel Messi’s Copa América final ends in tears as he suffers ankle injury
Argentinian soccer star Lionel Messi left fans heartbroken as he was forced to exit the Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia on Sunday night due to an apparent ankle injury. The FOX Sports broadcast captured the emotional moment when Messi, in tears, sat on the sidelines watching his team play for the final 30 minutes of the match.
The injury occurred in the first half when Messi went down after his foot was accidentally stepped on. Despite initially attempting to play through the pain, Messi was ultimately unable to continue and had to leave the field in the second half with his foot wrapped in ice.
Messi’s absence was felt as Argentina and Colombia remained tied 0-0 when he was substituted out in the 66th minute. Nico González replaced him on the field, but Argentina was unable to secure a victory without their star player.
This injury comes as a blow to Messi, who had been instrumental in helping Argentina reach the final and defend their title. The soccer icon had previously led Argentina to victory in the World Cup in 2022 and has been playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer since last summer.
Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for Messi’s swift recovery as he continues to be a key player for both club and country.