On Sunday night, Lionel Messi played what might be his final game for Inter Miami CF before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup next month. Despite tough, rainy conditions, Inter Miami triumphed with a 6-4 win against the Philadelphia Union. However, attention quickly turned to Messi after he left the game in the 73rd minute due to a suspected leg injury.
Even though Messi exited the field unaided, he gestured to the bench, indicating distress, before being substituted by Mateo Silvetti. He immediately made his way to the locker room, raising concerns about his fitness for what many anticipate to be his sixth World Cup appearance with Argentina. With only about three weeks until the tournament’s group stage starts, his availability remains uncertified.
Initially, Polymarket had set Messi’s chances of participating in the World Cup at over 95% before the incident. Although the odds are still favorable, they fell six percent shortly after the injury and could drop more depending on further assessments of his condition.
Argentina aims to defend its 2022 World Cup title, where Messi was instrumental in their memorable win against France in the final. They will compete in Group J, facing Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
World Cup Developments: England’s Performance and Portugal’s Rise 
Colombia Edges Past Congo to Reach World Cup Knockout Stage 
World Cup Highlights – Day 13: Ronaldo’s Encore and England’s Struggles 
Colombia Advances in World Cup after Victory against DR Congo 
Chicago White Sox Edge Past Cleveland Guardians 
Phillies Stun Nationals with Epic Ninth-Inning Comeback