New Delhi: Lionel Messi gave fans a scare after injuring his left hamstring during Inter Miami’s thrilling 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union in the MLS ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Messi, who is rarely substituted, walked off in the 73rd minute after apparently feeling pain and immediately went to the dressing room by himself.Before departing, Messi had already made a big impact with two assists, while Luis Suarez scored a hat-trick to help Inter Miami complete a comeback victory. Philadelphia took an early 2-0 lead, but the match turned into a goal-fest with an MLS-record eight goals scored in the first half alone. The timing of Messi’s injury scare has worried Argentina fans as the World Cup kicks off soon, with Argentina playing their first group stage match on June 16.Heavy rain made conditions slippery during the second half, although it remains unclear whether Messi’s substitution was a precaution or due to a more serious problem. He was seen walking slowly but without the help of medical personnel.Despite concerns about Messi, Inter Miami finished the first half of the MLS season strong and are now second in the Eastern Conference standings. Rodrigo De Paul sealed the win with a late goal, while German Bertramé also scored twice.Singer Luis Fonsi, who performed before the match, talked about watching Messi closely.“It’s beautiful, it’s fun to be a part of the game, to sing the national anthem and of course it’s an honor to see Messi and all these great players so close to me,” Fonsi said.“He’s a lot better known than me — a million times over,” she joked.
