Media reports have revealed that Argentine legend Lionel Messi suffered a heavy blow to the head during Argentina’s match against Cape Verde, leaving him with noticeable swelling that was clearly visible after the game.
Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in the Round of 32 of the tournament. The defending champions secured victory in the 111th minute after an own goal caused by a mistake from a Cape Verde player. The 39-year-old star sustained cuts and bruises after taking a direct knee to the head from an opposing player.
According to the Daily Mail, Messi’s head struck the leg of a Cape Verde player after he fell to the ground. He immediately applied an ice pack to reduce the swelling and continued playing until the final whistle.
During his post-match interview, a prominent swelling on Messi’s face was clearly visible under the lights. One fan even described the injury as a “badge of greatness.”
Earlier in the match, Messi gave Argentina the lead in the 29th minute with a superb finish. He expertly controlled a long pass before calmly lifting the ball over goalkeeper Fozinia and into the net.
Argentina, the 2022 FIFA World Cup champions, are now set to face Egypt in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.