Lionel Messi has handed Argentina a potential injury scare just weeks before the start of the 2026 World Cup. The Inter Miami star was forced to limp off the pitch during his side's dramatic 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer on Sunday night.
Messi Substituted in Second Half
Messi was replaced by Mateo Silvetti in the 73rd minute and appeared to be holding the back of his leg as he made his way off the pitch, heading straight for the dressing room. The incident has raised concerns over his fitness ahead of the World Cup, where Argentina will defend their crown.
Inter Miami's interim boss Guillermo Hoyos offered an update on Messi's condition, easing fears that the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star had picked up an injury. "As far as I know, we don't have a report on that yet, but he really was fatigued," Hoyos told reporters. "It was fatigue. He was tired, the field was heavy, and rather than doubt, one always says not to take the risk."
Race Against Time for Sixth World Cup
Messi now faces a race against time to be fit for his sixth World Cup appearance. He played a key role in Argentina's triumph in Qatar in 2022 and will be crucial to their chances this summer. Argentina will play friendly matches against Honduras and Iceland next month before the tournament begins.
Group Stage Fixtures
Lionel Scaloni's side will face Algeria in their opening Group J fixture on June 16 in Kansas City, followed by matches against Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27, both in Arlington, Texas. If Argentina advance from the group, they could meet Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, or Cape Verde in the round of 32. Even a third-place finish could see them progress, as the eight best third-placed teams qualify for the knockout stages.
The United States, Canada, and Mexico will co-host the 48-team tournament, the first expanded version of its kind. Fans will be hoping Messi recovers in time to lead Argentina's title defence.
