Lionel Messi picked up a groin injury in Argentina’s 1-0 win over Brazil on Tuesday evening in what was his final match of the 2023 calendar year. The Argentina captain was substituted in the 78th minute of play as a result.
“I felt discomfort in my adductor,” Messi explained. “It was my last game of the year, so I have time to get well to start 2024 giving everything.” According to the forward, the delay at the start of the match due to clashes between fans and police had a detrimental effect on his groin as it gave his body time to cool down in the locker room.
Messi has struggled with injuries throughout the past season, missing five MLS matches due to a hamstring injury. Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Peru last Thursday was his first full match since returning from injury on October 7. With their victory over Brazil, Argentina remains on top of the COMNEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifier standings.
