Home | News | Messi Puts Goal Of Playing Wc On Hold After Losing Fitness Battle At Copa America Messi puts goal of playing WC on hold after losing fitness battle at Copa final The Copa was Messi's first major tournament since leaving European soccer to play in the less competitive Major League Soccer in the US By AP Updated On - 16 July 2024, 11:05 AM Argentinas Lionel Messi grimaces in pain during the Copa America final soccer match against Colombia in Miami Gardens. — Photo:AP Aires: Lionel Messi cried uncontrollably after he exited from a Copa America final before fulltime for the first time in his career. Beyond the severe pain in his right ankle on Sunday night in Miami Gardens, the tears on the face of Argentina’s captain showed a deeper anguish.
Despite winning the title in one of his “last battles,” as Messi described this Copa, the 37-year-old superstar did not pass the fitness test that could have opened the way for him to play his sixth World Cup in 2026. Also Read Argentina beats Colombia 1-0, wins record 16th Copa America title Amid economic crisis, Copa America triumph brings respite for Argentina fans Argentina successfully defended its South American title with a hard-fought 1-0 extra-time win against Colombia . Messi left the pitch in Hard Rock Stadium in the 64th minute, breaking down without being touched.
The Copa was Messi’s first major tournament since leaving European soccer to play in the less competitive Major League Soccer in the US. Still,.
