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 64h minute and immediately signaled his concern to the Argentina bench. After being treated, he limped to the sidelines before breaking down in tears while having ice strapped to his right ankle on the bench.
He was replaced by Nicolás González.
Messi had earlier gone down holding his ankle after a strong challenge in the first half.
Messi 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.