Lionel Messi suffers injury in Copa America final, exits game early

Lionel Messi's quest for another Copa America title was cut short Sunday night when the Argentine superstar was forced to leave the field due to a leg injury. 

In the 64th minute, with the score still 0-0 against Colombia, Messi sustained what appeared to be a non-contact injury. 

Cameras captured the moment the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, in visible frustration and pain, removed his captain’s armband and threw his shoe to the ground as he walked off the pitch.

Messi, visibly emotional, was later seen sobbing on the bench, covering his face as the reality of the situation set in. 

Earlier in the match, he had landed awkwardly while chasing a ball, which seemed to aggravate a pre-existing leg injury that had already caused him to miss a group stage game. 

Despite efforts from the trainers who attended to him on the field, Messi’s night ended early, leaving a significant impact on the team's dynamics.

The incident not only highlights Messi’s struggles with injuries this tournament but also casts uncertainty on his fitness for future games. 

As Argentina continued without their leader, the match remained tense, reflecting the high stakes of the Copa America final.