Messi suffers injury scare before World Cup

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FLORIDA: Lionel Messi has triggered an injury alarm just three weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentina captain was forced off in the 73rd minute during Inter Miami’s 6-4 win over the Philadelphia Union at Chase Stadium. He was seen clutching the back of his left leg before signaling to the bench for a substitution.

The sight of the legendary forward walking down the tunnel in his final club match before the international tournament has left Argentina fans in a state of panic. Messi, now 38, requested the change himself, raising fears that a muscle strain could sideline him from his record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance.

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos attempted to calm fears during the post-match press conference, describing the move as purely precautionary. He cited heavy, rain-soaked ground conditions and general physical fatigue as the main reasons for the early exit, rather than a definitive serious injury.

Argentina is set to defend its world title in North America, with its opening match against Algeria scheduled for June 16. The world will be watching closely as the national team's medical staff evaluates the fitness of their most vital player over the coming days.