Huge Lionel Messi injury scare for Argentina as Inter Miami star admits he played with 'discomfort' in narrow Copa America win over Chile

Lautaro Martinez's late strike made sure that the reigning champions walked away with all three points against Chile in their second group game of Copa America 2024 on Wednesday. With back-to-back wins against Canada and Chile, La Albiceleste became the first team to qualify for the knockout stage.

Amid the euphoria of booking a knockout berth, the world champions were hit by the worrisome news of Messi's injury. The Inter Miami star confirmed after the game that despite playing the full 90 minutes, he did feel some "discomfort" during the match. The 37-year-old was also seen receiving treatment from medical staff following a heavy challenge from Chile's Gabriel Suazo.

Speaking to reporters after the game, the former Barcelona star said: "I felt some discomfort in my right hamstring at the beginning of the game. It was tight. It wasn’t as loose as it should’ve been. But I was able to finish the game. We’ll see how it goes."

Having already secured a quarter-final spot, Scaloni might consider resting his captain for Argentina's final group game against Peru, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday. At his post-match press conference, the manager said: "Against Peru, the guys who didn't get minutes in these matches (Canada and Chile) will play."