Just weeks before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, panic spread across Argentina and the football world on Sunday night after Lionel Messi suffered an injury scare.
This incident happened during Inter Miami CF’s dramatic 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union in Major League Soccer.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner stunned fans at Nu Stadium when he suddenly signaled for a substitution in the 73rd minute after clutching the back of his left leg and upper thigh following a free-kick attempt.
Messi immediately headed straight down the tunnel toward the dressing room, sparking fears of a possible hamstring injury less than three weeks before Argentina begin the defence of their world title at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
For a country dreaming of back-to-back World Cup triumphs, it was the sight nobody wanted to see.
Messi Grabs Left Thigh Before Asking To Be Substituted
The worrying moment unfolded midway through the second half in what had already become one of the wildest matches in MLS history.
After taking a free kick in the 70th minute, Messi was seen repeatedly touching the upper part of his left thigh and the back of his leg.
Moments later, the Inter Miami captain approached the bench and requested to come off.
He was replaced by Mateo Silvetti in the 73rd minute.
Although Messi walked off without assistance, cameras captured the Argentine star heading directly to the locker room instead of remaining on the bench with teammates.
Given Messi’s history of hamstring problems since joining Miami in 2023, concern immediately exploded across social media and Argentine media outlets.
Inter Miami Coach Breaks Silence On Messi Injury Scare
Following the match, Inter Miami manager, Guillermo Hoyos attempted to calm fears, insisting Messi’s withdrawal was mainly precautionary.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a report on that yet, but he really was fatigued. It was fatigue,” Hoyos said after the game.
“Yes, it was fatigue.”
“He was tired, the field was heavy, and rather than doubt, you always say not to take the risk.”
The Miami coach later added:
“He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks.”
Hoyos also admitted he had not yet spoken directly with Messi after the final whistle.
Despite the reassurance, the timing could hardly be more alarming for Argentina supporters.
Fears Grow Ahead Of Argentina Squad Announcement
Messi has not yet officially confirmed he will play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but he is widely expected to feature for the defending champions in what would be a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance.
Argentina’s squad announcement is expected next week.
The Albiceleste begin their Group J campaign against Algeria national football team on June 16 in the tournament jointly hosted by United States, Canada and Mexico.
After finally winning the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, Messi’s possible final appearance on football’s biggest stage has become one of the tournament’s biggest storylines.
That is why Sunday’s incident immediately triggered fears of a potential disaster for Argentina.
One Of The Craziest MLS Games Ever Played
Ironically, Messi’s injury scare overshadowed one of the most extraordinary matches in MLS history.
The game exploded into chaos almost immediately.
Philadelphia stormed into a 2-0 lead thanks to a brace from Milan Iloski, who scored once from open play and once from the penalty spot.
Messi responded by creating Inter Miami’s first goal with a dangerous cross that Germán Berterame converted into an empty net.
But Philadelphia restored their two-goal advantage when Bruno Damiani capitalised after goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair spilled an effort into his path.
Then the madness truly began.
Suárez Leads Stunning Miami Comeback
Inter Miami launched a breathtaking comeback led by veteran striker Luis Suárez.
Suárez scored once before Berterame grabbed his second of the night.
The Uruguayan striker then struck again to put Miami 4-3 ahead.
However, Philadelphia responded just before halftime after a VAR review ruled that Sergio Reguilón handled the ball inside the area.
Iloski completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot, making it 4-4 before halftime in the highest-scoring first half in MLS history.
Torrential Rain, Messi Exit
The second half was played in torrential rain, dramatically slowing the pace after the goal frenzy of the opening 45 minutes.
Then came Messi’s worrying exit.
But Inter Miami still found a way to win.
Minutes after Messi left the field, Suárez completed his own hat-trick after an unselfish assist from Berterame gave Miami a 5-4 lead in the 81st minute.
Messi’s Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul later sealed the remarkable 6-4 victory with Miami’s sixth goal of the night.
The 10-goal thriller finished tied as the second-highest scoring regular-season MLS match of all time.
MLS Heads Into World Cup Break
Major League Soccer will now pause for an extended break as players depart for international duty ahead of the World Cup.
Inter Miami enter the break sitting second in the Eastern Conference with 31 points, just two behind leaders Nashville SC.
All attention now shifts toward Messi’s condition.
Argentina will anxiously await medical updates over the coming days, hoping the greatest player of his generation has not suffered a serious setback before one final shot at World Cup immortality.
