Lionel Messi was forced off with an apparent right ankle injury in the second half of the Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.
Messi collapsed to the field in the 64th minute and immediately signaled his concern to the Argentina bench. After being treated for several minutes, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner limped to the sidelines, took off his captain’s armband and threw his shoe to the ground in frustration.
An emotional Messi was then shown covering his face, sobbing in his seat.
He was replaced by Nicolás González.
Messi had earlier gone down holding his right leg after a strong challenge in the first half.
The Inter Miami player chased the ball and tried to kick it before it went out of bounds. He planted his right leg awkwardly and appeared to take contact from Colombia’s Santiago Arias.
The 37-year-old writhed in pain and rolled over several times as he grabbed at his lower right leg. Trainers worked on the area for a few minutes before helping him to his feet. He walked slowly toward the sideline before reentering the game.
Messi had been dealing with a leg injury and discomfort through much of the tournament and missed Argentina’s group stage finale.
The final was tied 0-0 when Messi exited.
Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.
