Lionel Messi back injury mars Argentina friendly win over Honduras

Argentina are holding their breath after Lionel Messi was taken off injured in their international friendly against Honduras.

The No 10 collided with Johnny Leveron and hurt his back, with early reports saying he was in the dressing room in a lot of pain.

The Albiceleste were winning 1-0 when the injury happened, 14 minutes into the second half. He was replaced by Ever Banega. 

Messi was able to walk off the pitch and after sitting on the bench at first he then retired to the dressing room. At the game's conclusion he headed to a clinic for scans. Argentina said he had "suffered trauma to his lower back and rib cage". 

Tata Martino explained after the game: "Lionel Messi took a big hit to the lower back and they are doing tests on him. I'm not going to dare to give a diagnostic."

Gonzalo Higuain scored Argentina's goal early in the first half, a wonderful move which saw him beat a defender with a great turn and clip the ball over the goalkeeper.

Argentina won the match by that single strike and will now be hoping Messi is fit for their first Copa America clash, against Chile.