VIDEO: Lionel Messi Avoids Injury After Reckless Studs-up Challenge

Inter Miami star, Lionel Messi was fortunate to avoid serious injury after being caught by a reckless studs-up challenge during 2-2 draw with Nashville.

The incident in question happened in Tennessee during the 77th minute of an exciting CONCACAF Champions Cup match. Shortly after the break, the Herons were behind by two goals in the match, but they fought back to tie the score late into stoppage time.

Messi was shaken up after this play, but remained in the match. pic.twitter.com/NxeQMikbVU

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 8, 2024

READ ALSO: ‘Messi Easier To Mark’ – Ex Liverpool Star

Messi hauled Inter Miami back into the game when producing a sublime finish seven minutes into the second-half, before Luis Suarez restored parity in the 95th minute. There is now all to play for in the last-16 encounter heading into a return date at Chase Stadium.

Messi should be able to play in that match after escaping a high challenge from Nashville that might have caused him to suffer a leg injury. Midway through the second half, Lukas MacNaughton followed through by clearing the ball, his studs clattering against Messi’s shin.

Things are getting chippy between Inter Miami and Nashville SC pic.twitter.com/hhNnm5AqKj

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) March 8, 2024

Ten minutes had passed since the ugly brawl on the Nashville box’s edge, during which Messi argued with many opponents before Suarez and Sergio Busquets intervened. Next Wednesday, the second leg of an exciting tie will take place in Florida.