Lionel Messi had a close shave against Nashville. Aside from playing a pivotal role in securing a draw in the opening RO16 leg of the CONCACAF Champions League, the Argentinian was subjected to a harsh tackle. The impact was so grave that he was forced to sit out the recent MLS fixture against Montreal. However, the perpetrator of the studs-up challenge remains unabashed, dismissing the incident as ‘just another tackle.’

Ahead of Leg 2, Nashville center-back Lukas MacNaughton was asked to discuss the episode where he almost ended La Pulga’s season in the previous encounter. However, the defender didn’t seem fazed, as he quickly fended off his challenge. Speaking at the press conference, he said, “Messi tried to get something out of nothing. I’ve tackled enough players in my career, it is what it is. Someone wants to make a fuss after the game or in the game, it’s just another tackle.” 

Notably, during the 75th minute, Messi was actively attempting to pressure MacNaughton to regain possession near the touchline. However, when the defender cleared the ball, he inadvertently stepped on Messi’s shin, resulting in the star player going down and requiring medical attention.

However, the 36-year-old managed to complete the entire game and assist his team in mounting a comeback despite the severe tackle. However, Messi missed his next game against Montreal, which had severe repercussions for Miami. 

Montreal clinched a 2–3 victory at the Chase Stadium, forcing Tata Martino and Co. to accept the first defeat of their season. But the question now remains: Is Messi ready to play in Leg 2 against Nashville?

Will Lionel Messi play against Nashville for CONCACAF Champions League Leg 2? 

After the opening leg, Tata Martino dismissed concerns about Lionel Messi’s injury. However, his absence in the Montreal game raised questions about whether he had been sidelined. Miami justified his absence by stating that they wanted the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner to stay fit for the return leg. Fortunately, the rest seems to have done its trick, bringing good news for Herons’ faithful.

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Messi was witnessed participating in team training ahead of the upcoming game. The Argentine joined Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets in the training session, signaling his return to action for the David Beckham-owned franchise’s quest to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. Though it provides a boost to the team, Martino must exercise caution in handling Messi’s workload. 

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Rest assured, aside from an enthralling encounter, we might anticipate Messi to respond to Lukas MacNaughton’s pre-match comments regarding the tackle in his own way during the game.

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