Agence France-Presse
San Juan (Argentina), May 28: Lionel Messi was taken to hospital after suffering an injury scare as Argentina defeated Honduras 1-0 in their only warm-up game before next month’s Copa America Centenario in the United States.
A first half goal from in-form Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain settled a low-key encounter in here Friday night, with two-time World Champions Argentina dominating possession and shots.
But the result was overshadowed by an alarming incident involving Messi midway through the second half that forced the Barcelona superstar to leave the field clutching his lower back in pain. He appeared to be hurt after a heavy aerial collision with an opposing player in the 59th minute. He was substituted by Ever Banega.
Messi was taken to hospital to assess the nature of the injury, the Argentina Football Association said in a statement. “Messi suffered trauma to his lower back on the left side and ribcage in the same area. He is being examined in a local hospital for a more thorough diagnosis,” the statement said.
“It’s too early for me to say anything more at this stage,” Argentina coach Gerardo Martino told a post-match news conference. “We are waiting for the report.”
However, any injury to Messi will be a huge blow to Argentina as they prepare for their opening Copa America Centenario match June 6 against Chile in California.
Earlier, Higuain’s goal in the 31st minute had settled the encounter for the hosts. The striker produced a sublime Cruyff turn to wrongfoot defender Maynor Figueroa before lifting a delicate finish over goalkeeper Donis Escober.
Argentina had earlier threatened the Honduras goal when Messi played in Angel di Maria only for the PSG forward to shoot over the bar.
