Argentina superstar Lionel Messi was left in tears on the bench after suffering a concerning ankle injury during the Copa America final.
Argentina made history on Sunday night as Lautaro Martinez's extra-time strike proved to be the only goal of an eventful game that was overshadowed by crowd trouble and a gruesome injury sustained by Messi. The Albiceleste's 16th Copa America triumph sees them pull clear with the most wins in the competition's history, and they became the first nation to successfully defend the Copa America as World Cup holders.
However, they were forced to do it without their captain after Messi was withdrawn in the 63rd minute. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner attempted to chase down Liverpool winger Luis Diaz when he lost his footing and fell awkwardly. The 37-year-old was in considerable pain and he immediately called for attention.
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READ MORE: Lionel Messi bursts into tears after leaving Copa America final with injury
After remaining on the ground for several moments as physios treated him, Messi took off his right boot and limped off the pitch. The Inter Miami forward then threw his boot in anger before slumping in his seat and bursting into tears at his emotional and unceremonious exit from the final.
Images of Messi's swollen ankle quickly made their way to social media after TV cameras and photographers captured the extent of his injury. The Argentine had removed his right sock and slider, revealing a significantly swollen ankle.
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The non-contact nature of the injury raises concerns about potential damage to tendons, ligaments, and tissue, which could explain the large lump on the front and side of his lower leg.
During Argentina's team talk before extra time, Messi was seen limping out of his seat to encourage his teammates, despite the back of his ankle and foot turning a deep purple from severe bruising.
This injury could mark Messi's final appearance in the Copa America, a tournament that has brought him both joy and disappointment throughout his career. He finished as runner-up against Chile in 2015 and 2016 before finally winning the trophy for the first time in 2021.
However, Messi and his fans are hopeful that this isn't his last performance for Argentina. After the 2-0 semi-final victory over Canada, he expressed his desire to continue playing for his country beyond Sunday's final.
"As I've said before, I intend to continue," he told reporters. "I intend to keep living day by day without thinking about what will come in the future or whether I'll continue or not. It's something I just live each day. I'm 37 years and only God knows when the end will be."
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