Football fans around the world were left holding their breath as global superstar Lionel Messi was forced out of Argentina's crucial Copa America quarter-final against Ecuador at half-time on Thursday night.
The Inter Miami forward, who had been instrumental in his team's group stage performances, was seen clutching the back of his right leg in clear discomfort during the first half. Despite attempting to play on, the 37-year-old maestro was unable to continue and was officially substituted during the interval.
The Argentine Football Association moved quickly to address concerns, stating the captain was removed due to 'a problem in the posterior right leg'. This development comes as a massive blow to manager Lionel Scaloni's plans, with Messi having already provided a goal and an assist in the tournament.
This isn't the first injury scare for Messi this season. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner missed several matches for his MLS club Inter Miami earlier this year with a hamstring issue, and now faces another anxious wait for scan results.
The timing couldn't be worse for both club and country. With Argentina pushing for another major trophy and Inter Miami locked in a tight Eastern Conference race, the potential loss of their talismanic captain could prove devastating to both campaigns.
All eyes will now be on medical assessments to determine the severity of the injury and whether football's greatest modern player will be available for the semi-finals should Argentina progress.
