Lionel Messi may sit out Argentina’s next Copa America game against Peru due to a sore thigh, despite his team already being qualified for the following round after securing two wins. The 37-year-old required medical treatment during the 1-0 victory over Chile but managed to complete the full 90 minutes. There is some uncertainty surrounding Messi’s participation in the upcoming game and he acknowledges that it might be wiser to rest to avoid aggravating the injury.
With a 2-0 win over Canada adding to their victory over Chile, Argentina, the reigning world champions and tournament favorites, are comfortably leading Group A with six points. The team is content with their early performances in the Copa America after the disappointment of their past major tournament. The victory against Chile helped Messi bury a negative memory from eight years ago, highlighting how far he has come in his career both with his club and the national team.
Lionel Scaloni, the coach, has not confirmed whether Messi will be rested for the Peru game to preserve his fitness for the quarter-finals. After years of success at Barcelona, Messi has only recently achieved major international success with Argentina, winning both the Copa America and the World Cup. As speculations arise about his future with the national team, Scaloni urges fans to appreciate Messi’s playing rather than worrying about his next steps.
The upcoming games in the Copa America provide an opportunity for Messi to shine once again, especially with Brazil struggling in their initial matches. The tournament final on July 14 is set to take place in Florida, the home state of Messi’s club Inter Miami, creating a fitting backdrop for a potential fairy-tale ending to Messi’s international career. As one of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi’s impact on Argentina’s national team and his legacy in the sport are undeniable. Fans and commentators eagerly await his next moves in the tournament and beyond.
