Title: Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba Suffer Injuries in Inter Miami CF’s Match Against Toronto FC
Date: September 20, 2023
In a disappointing turn of events, Inter Miami CF’s Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba suffered injuries during their team’s match against Toronto FC on Wednesday. Messi was substituted in the 37th minute due to an apparent leg injury, closely followed by Alba leaving the field. Both players had started the game after missing the previous match against Atlanta United FC.
Interestingly, neither Messi nor Alba seemed to have endured any heavy challenges or displayed visible signs of limping. However, they were clearly experiencing physical discomfort. After leaving the field, both players went straight to the bench instead of heading to the locker room. Despite their absence, Miami managed to score a goal and led 1-0 at halftime.
Prior to his substitution, Messi had a promising start to the game, showcasing his skills and even having a golden chance in the 23rd minute. Unfortunately, his far-post volley missed the mark. About 15 minutes later, it became evident that Messi was struggling with some physical issue, leading to his replacement by Robert Taylor.
Alba had left the game just four minutes before Messi. Toronto FC had also made two substitutions prior to their departures, including Victor Vasquez, a former Barcelona youth player, who was forced off in the 12th minute. Brandon Servania, Vasquez’s replacement, had to be helped off with an apparent knee injury just 14 minutes later.
Messi’s departure from the field was quite noticeable as he labored with a leg issue. He could be seen stretching during play before eventually removing his captain’s armband and patiently waiting for the game to stop so that he could leave. Notably, Messi even unlaced his cleats, lowered his socks, and removed his shin guards before stepping off the field.
The Argentine had already missed his previous two matches, one for club and the other for his country, citing fatigue as the reason. Messi was not available for comment regarding his latest injury setback.
Inter Miami CF has a grueling schedule ahead with six matches in a span of 17 days. Their next game is against Orlando City SC on Sunday, followed by the U.S. Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo FC on September 27. They will then face New York City FC, Chicago Fire FC, and FC Cincinnati in quick succession.
Currently, Miami is seven points behind D.C. United for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with two games in hand. Messi, with 11 appearances for Miami, has contributed 11 goals and five assists, including one goal and two assists in three MLS matches.
(This article includes information from The Associated Press.)