Lionel Messi played his final match for Inter Miami CF on Sunday night before the upcoming start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. During the game, held under rainy and challenging conditions, Inter Miami triumphed over Philadelphia Union with a score of 6-4. Despite the victory, attention soon turned to Messi, who left the game in the 73rd minute due to a suspected leg injury.
Messi managed to leave the field on his own, which initially was perceived as a positive sign. However, he made a signal towards the bench before being substituted by Mateo Silvetti and proceeded to the locker room.
The pressing issue now revolves around Messi’s potential participation in what fans hope will be his sixth World Cup with Argentina. His status remains unconfirmed with about three weeks left until the group stage begins.
Messi’s odds of participating in the World Cup were over 95% prior to his injury, according to Polymarket, a prediction market. The odds have reportedly decreased by six percent shortly after the incident and could fall further as more is learned about the injury’s severity.
Argentina, aiming to defend its 2022 World Cup title where Messi was instrumental in their win over France, will compete in Group J. They are set to face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan in the group stage.