Argentina talisman Lionel Messi tearfully subbed off with non-contact injury in Copa America final against Colombia

In the 68th minute of Copa America final 2024, Argentina's hero and captain Lionel Messi exited the contest with a non-contact injury to his lower-leg.

Leaving the pitch in tears, fans chanted his named and gave him a standing ovation as he couldn't hold back his emotions being forced to leave the match.

At the time of his departure, the match was scoreless with neither side particularly threatening the other. In a contentious match, Messi played his role, completing 85% of his passes with one big chance created and one shot on target.

Lucky for him, though, supersub Lautaro Martinez came to the rescue of Argentina. The Inter Milan forward net the winner in. a 1-0 victory over Colombia to lift Copa America.

Messi sustained a knock midway through the first half, and was down on the pitch for two minutes receiving medical treatment on what appeared to be a right ankle injury. He was, however, able to continue.

The seriousness of the injury will be evaluated by team medical staff in the coming days. However, he was healthy enough to celebrate with his team post-match, despite disturbing images of the injury surfacing during the contest.