Inter Miami CF faced the Philadelphia Union on Sunday night, marking their final match before the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite challenging wet conditions, Miami achieved a 6-4 victory. However, the spotlight was on 38-year-old Lionel Messi, who left the field in the 73rd minute due to what appeared to be a hamstring or leg issue.
The temporary injury concern sparked questions about Messi’s participation in what could be his sixth appearance at the World Cup with Argentina, a significant achievement he has yet to confirm officially. Fortunately, medical reports from sources like Doble Amarilla and The Touchline later confirmed no severe injury. The problem was identified as muscle fatigue, which alleviated fears regarding his availability for the tournament and forthcoming World Cup friendlies.
The soccer community, particularly Messi’s fans, expressed great relief following this update. This tournament might be Messi’s last World Cup appearance, adding to the anticipation.
“The whole world just heaved a sigh of relief. The GOAT is fine. We are all fine,” a fan remarked.
Another commented, “If Messi were to get injured now, FIFA would postpone the World Cup. Because what’s a World Cup tournament without the GOAT.”
A different fan simply wrote, “Best news.”
Someone else stated, “The universe is happy again. A 2026 World Cup without Messi, who is the face of football, would not make sense.”
Another supporter mentioned, “Thank goodness. We have a World Cup to defend.”
Argentina aims to defend their World Cup title after their 2022 victory over France in a dramatic final. In the 2026 tournament, they will compete in Group J with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. Their first group match against Algeria is scheduled for June 16 at 9 p.m. ET.