Lionel Messi was overcome with emotion as an injury halted his potential final appearance for Argentina in a major tournament. However, his teammates rallied behind their captain, securing the Copa America title on Sunday. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner sustained an ankle injury in the 36th minute of the final against Colombia but continued playing until the 66th minute when he had to leave the field in tears, subsequently applying an ice pack to his swollen ankle on the bench.
The match was still scoreless when the 37-year-old Messi exited, but Argentina stepped up their performance, with Lautaro Martinez scoring in extra time to clinch a 1-0 win and a record 16th Copa title. Captain Messi later hoisted the trophy alongside long-time teammates Angel di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi, both aged 36.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni expressed his admiration for Messi, stating, "Leo is the greatest player in history. He never wants to leave the pitch. He has a swollen ankle and he wants to keep on playing." Scaloni emphasized that Messi's desire to play is not driven by ego but by a deep commitment to his teammates.
Messi has suggested he might retire in recent months, indicating that the Copa America could be the last major tournament for him and his fellow Argentine veterans. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul highlighted Messi's dedication, saying, "I know Leo (Messi), I know how he thinks. He always wants to be there, but the fact that he's part of this team is the best thing for us." De Paul also expressed mixed emotions about Di Maria's potential farewell, noting his pride in Di Maria's achievements as a World Cup and Copa champion.
