NEW DELHI:
Lionel Messi
's
Copa America final
ended early when he exited the field emotionally in the 64th minute due to an apparent leg injury. The 37-year-old appeared to suffer a noncontact injury while running at full speed. At the time, the
Argentina
vs
Colombia
match remained scoreless.
Messi signaled to the bench immediately before going to the ground, where he remained for several minutes as trainers attended to him.
He was eventually helped to his feet as he removed his right shoe before walking off the field.
Earlier in the first half, Messi had a fall while chasing a ball out of bounds, leading him to clutch his lower right leg. Trainers assisted him, allowing him to continue playing.
Lionel Messi leaves the field with an injury. (AFP Photo)
According to an AP report, Messi removed his captain's armband and threw his shoe to the ground in frustration as he left the field. An emotional Messi was later seen covering his face and sobbing on the bench.
Throughout the tournament, Messi had been dealing with a leg injury and discomfort, causing him to miss Argentina's group stage finale. Despite his efforts in the final match, he managed only one shot attempt in the first half.
The severity of Messi's injury remains unclear, and its impact on Argentina's pursuit of the
Copa America
title is yet to be determined.
Lionel Messi (R) reacts after leaving the pitch. (AFP Photo)
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