Lionel Messi is out of the Copa America final with an apparent leg injury

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Lionel Messi’s night ended early during the Copa America final when he was hobbled off the field in the 64th minute with an apparent leg injury Sunday night.

The 37-year-old appeared to suffer a non-contact injury while sprinting down the pitch as defending champions Argentina were held to a scoreless draw against Colombia.

Messi immediately looked towards the Argentina bench as he went down to the ground. He stayed down for a few minutes while the trainers came out. He was helped to his feet and immediately took the shoe off his right foot.

As he walked off the field, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner removed his captain’s armband and threw his shoe on the ground in frustration. An emotional Messi was then shown covering his face, crying on his chair.

Messi went down in the first half after landing awkwardly as he chased a ball out of bounds. He rolled several times as he grabbed his lower right leg. Trainers worked the area for a few minutes before helping him to his feet. He slowly walked to the sideline before returning to the game.

Messi dealt with a foot injury and discomfort for much of the tournament and missed the final group stage in Argentina. He had one shot attempt Sunday in the first half.

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AP Copa America coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/copa-america

Alanis Thames, Associated Press