The Copa America 2024 has officially kicked off. Argentina faced Group A rivals Canada in the tournament’s opening game and came 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, 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 regrettable.”

Interestingly, joining the center-back was goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. As compiled by @AlbicelesteTalk on X, 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.” He added, “That’s when you realize the obstacles they put in our way, but we are a team that keeps going, going, and going.”

Even though Argentina faced difficulties getting their play forward, it didn’t stop them from clinching the crucial three points. After a goalless affair in the first half, Argentina finally took the lead in the 49th minute, with Manchester City star Julian Alvarez breaking the deadlock. Both sides continued to test each other, as in the 88th minute, Lautaro Martinez doubled the World Champions’ lead.

The Inter Milan star who replaced Alvarez wasted no time, capitalizing on a brilliant setup from Lionel Messi to score a fine finish. Speaking of La Pulga, he certainly didn’t encounter welcoming conditions.

Lionel Messi gives a potential injury scare during Argentina vs Canada

While Argentina fans would celebrate 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.

The Inter Miami star went down but finished the rest of the game. Yet, fingers are crossed that it doesn’t go awry for the striker. Regardless, the biggest injury threat to Messi remains the pitch conditions detailed by his teammates. The former Barcelona was seen avoiding the turf while donning the Inter Miami shirt. However, he doesn’t have a choice while playing on such a grand stage.

Messi shall find ways to keep himself injury-free while bearing the responsibility of leading his side to win. Rest, perhaps negative feedback from Cristian Romero and Dibu Martinez may enforce a change in conditions from the next matches.