Heartbreak for Lionel Messi as Injury Forces Him Out of Copa America 2024 Final Against Colombia

Argentina captain Lionel Messi was overcome with emotion after an injury forced him off the field during the Copa America 2024 final against Colombia on Sunday. The match, which was already marred by pre-game controversies and delays, saw Messi in tears as he was substituted in what is presumed to be his last appearance in a major tournament.

The summit clash, held at a packed stadium, began after a lengthy delay of over an hour due to security checks that left many fans stranded outside. The delay was caused by a large number of ticketless fans forcing their way into the stadium, creating chaos and a need for thorough security measures.

Once the match started, it was a fiercely competitive first half with Argentina struggling to break through Colombia’s resolute defense. The 2022 World Cup winners could not find the back of the net, and the first half ended goalless.

The drama intensified when Messi was brought down by a Colombian defender, resulting in an ankle injury. Medical staff rushed onto the field to attend to him, and after a few tense minutes, Messi returned to play. However, fate intervened again in the second half as Messi’s injury flared up, forcing him to leave the field. He was replaced by Nicolas Gonzalez and exited in tears, a poignant moment for fans worldwide.

This final match is significant not just for Messi but also for veteran star Angel Di Maria, who announced it would be his last game for Argentina. Di Maria, like Messi, has experienced the highs and lows of international football, from the frustration of years without trophies to the jubilation of winning the 2021 Copa America in Brazil and the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.

The match itself was further delayed by a total of 82 minutes due to security issues stemming from the unauthorized entry of fans. Despite the chaotic start, the game was fiercely contested. Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez had early chances but failed to score, as Colombia’s pressing style created numerous problems for Argentina.

As Messi left the field in tears, it marked a heartbreaking moment for the legendary player and his fans. The world will be watching closely to see how Argentina fares without their talismanic captain and whether they can clinch the title in his absence.

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