Argentina Stars Raises Concern Over 'Very Ugly' Pitch Conditions as Lionel Messi Risks Injury in Copa America
The Copa America 2024 has officially kicked off. Argentina faced Group A rivals Canada in the opening game of the tournament and they did come on top with a 2-0 win. But it was far from an easy victory, as not only did Lionel Messi face the risk of potential injury, but both sides played on unfavorable pitch conditions, which La Albiceleste stars Cristian Romero and Emiliano Martinez described as 'regrettable' and a 'disaster.' While reflecting on the win in the post-match interview, first the Tottenham star Romero didn't spare the groundwork of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. Speaking to TyC Sports, he said, "The pitch conditions were very ugly. Having to play this competition on a pitch like this is Interestingly, joining the center-back was goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. the Aston Villa star said, "The pitch was a disaster; they put sod on top of synthetic turf, and it felt like a trampoline every time we received the ball."
Lionel Messi gives a potential injury scare during Argentina vs Canada
While Argentina fans would be celebrating their inaugural win in Copa America, many would be stressed over a heart-in-mouth moment concerning Lionel Messi. While in action, the 36-year-old was charging to win the ball, and suddenly Canadian center-back Moïse Bombito tackled the Argentinian skipper. Though the tackle was clean as Bombito cleared the ball first, his cleats made contact with Messi's right ankle.