Lionel Messi’s Copa América Dreams Cut Short by Ankle Injury

In a shocking turn of events, Lionel Messi left Sunday’s Copa América final against Colombia in tears after suffering an ankle injury in the second half. The 37-year-old Argentine superstar, who has been bothered by leg injuries throughout the year, fell to the turf in the 63rd minute and immediately signaled to the bench.

Despite his initial injury, Messi returned to the game, but his Copa América was ultimately over. He left the game in the 66th minute for Nicolás González with the score tied at 0-0. Messi broke down in tears on the bench as the moment settled in, his ankle wrapped in ice.

The precise nature of his injury wasn’t initially clear, but a welt on his ankle was revealed when the wrap was removed. Messi appeared to initially sustain the injury in the first half after a tackle on the baseline, but he grabbed his right ankle after the fall and returned to the game.

Despite his absence, Argentina went on to win the title, securing its 16th Copa América title and breaking a tie with Uruguay for the most all-time. Lautaro Martínez scored the winning goal in extra time, giving Argentina a 1-0 victory over Colombia.

The Copa América final was also marred by chaos before it started, with fans at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium rushing the gates and breaking down barriers to gain entry. Authorities temporarily opened the stadium gates in an effort to alleviate injuries amid "serious concern of fans being crushed in an attempt to enter."

This was Messi’s second Copa América final appearance, and his injury will undoubtedly be a disappointment for fans and teammates alike. Despite his absence, Argentina’s victory marks a successful tournament for the team, and Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest players of all time remains intact.