Lionel Messi made his last appearance for Inter Miami CF on Sunday night ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match against the Philadelphia Union ended with a 6-4 win for Miami, yet the main focus shifted to Messi’s unexpected exit.
Messi left the game in the 73rd minute under challenging weather conditions. His walk to the sideline suggested he was fine, but soon after, he signaled for a substitute before Mateo Silvetti replaced him. Messi headed directly to the locker room after leaving the field.
The primary concern now is Messi’s availability for his potentially sixth World Cup appearance with Argentina. His participation remains unconfirmed with about three weeks left until group play starts.
Earlier, Polymarket, a prediction market, indicated Messi had more than a 95% chance to play in the World Cup. After his injury, the odds decreased by six percent and may decline further depending on the injury’s severity.
Argentina aims to defend its 2022 World Cup title, where Messi was key in their victory against France. This year, they are set to compete in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
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