Lionel Messi’s heartbreaking exit from the Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia on Sunday night left fans in shock. The soccer superstar, who was seen in tears on the sidelines after suffering an apparent ankle injury, had to watch the final 30 minutes of the game from the bench.
Messi, who helped lead Argentina back to the final to defend their title, was initially injured in the first half when his foot was accidentally stepped on. Despite trying to play through the pain, he eventually had to leave the field for good in the second half, walking off with his cleat in hand and his foot wrapped in ice.
The match was tied 0-0 when Messi was forced to exit, with Nico González replacing him in the 66th minute. Argentina went on to win Group A, with Messi scoring a crucial goal in the semifinals to secure a spot in the final.
This injury comes as a blow to Messi, who had helped Argentina win the World Cup in 2022 and has been playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer since last summer. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on his condition and hoping for a speedy recovery for the soccer legend.