Lionel Messi’s Injury Overshadows Argentina’s Copa America Triumph Over Colombia

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/15th July 2024

Argentina emerged victorious against Colombia in the Copa America final, but the win came at a significant cost. The team’s iconic captain, Lionel Messi, was forced to leave the game during the second half due to an injury, casting a shadow over the celebration.

Messi’s injury occurred just over an hour into the match, which eventually went into extra time before Argentina secured their win. The 37-year-old superstar went down suddenly in the 64th minute after a forward run, having already taken a knock to his right foot earlier in the game. His ankle swelled up immediately, prompting urgent medical attention. Messi took off his boot to expose the swollen ankle, signaling that his time on the pitch was over. His frustration was evident as he threw his boot to the ground and handed over the captain’s armband to a teammate.

Visibly distressed, Messi sat on the bench with tears in his eyes, covering his face as cameras captured the moment. This injury was particularly disheartening for Messi, who had entered the tournament with existing fitness concerns, having missed Argentina’s final group stage match due to a leg injury. The match, which was still goalless at the time of his departure, required Argentina to step up without their talismanic leader.

In Messi’s absence, Lautaro Martinez rose to the occasion. Martinez, who was substituted in during extra time, became Argentina’s hero by scoring the decisive goal. In the 112th minute, as penalties loomed, Martinez’s clever link-up play allowed him to break through Colombia’s defense and calmly slot the ball past goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, securing the victory for Argentina.

Lionel Scaloni, Argentina’s head coach, praised his team’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity. Scaloni’s record now boasts three major international tournament wins, including the 2022 World Cup. Reflecting on the match, Scaloni acknowledged the challenging first half and the difficult opponent. “I don’t know if it marks an era, but it’s true this team never ceases to surprise,” Scaloni stated. “They overcame the difficulties of a very difficult match, with a very complicated opponent and without a good first half.”

The final also marked a poignant moment for Angel Di Maria, who played his last match in an Argentina shirt. Scaloni expressed hope that Di Maria might play one more time to properly commemorate his illustrious international career. “Di Maria has had some spectacular matches, but today’s was one of his best,” Scaloni said, highlighting the veteran’s significant contributions to the team.

Despite Messi’s premature exit, Argentina’s triumph underscored the depth and determination of the squad. The victory solidified their status as back-to-back Copa America champions, a testament to their skill and perseverance.

As the team celebrated their hard-fought win, the sight of Messi on the sidelines served as a reminder of the physical toll the sport takes on even its greatest players. The victory, while sweet, was bittersweet, as fans and teammates alike hoped for Messi’s swift recovery and return to the pitch.