Lionel Scaloni, the Argentina coach, has revealed that captain Lionel Messi played against Colombia and Brazil in Copa America with a hamstring injury.
According to Scaloni, Messi sustained the injury during Argentina’s Copa America 3-0 win against Ecuador in the quarter-final last week.
Recall that Argentina defeated Colombia on penalties in the Copa America semi-final last Wednesday.
Argentina also defeated Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America final on Saturday, thanks to Angel Di Maria’s first-half goal.
“Messi has been playing with a hamstring injury against Colombia and Brazil, after getting a knock against Ecuador,” Scaloni said at his post-match press conference.
He added, “It’s a great title, especially for our people. The fans support the team unconditionally. I think they can identify with this team that never gives in.”