Lionel Messi Bleeds From Eye But Continues Playing in World Cup Quarterfinals

Lionel Messi caused concern during Argentina's World Cup quarterfinal match against Switzerland on July 12, 2026, after bleeding from his eye following a clash with Swiss player Granit Xhaka. The injury, which involved a cut on Messi's eyelid, required medical treatment including bandaging, but did not prevent him from continuing to play. Messi scored the opening goal for Argentina in the 10th minute, helping his team secure a 3-1 victory in extra time against a Swiss side reduced to 10 players from the 72nd minute onward. Despite the injury raising alarm within the Argentine camp, Messi remained on the field and contributed to his team's progression to the semifinals. Local media reported the injury occurred just before the halftime break when Xhaka's challenge caused the eyelid cut and subsequent bleeding.