Freak injury rules Lavezzi out of Copa final
Ezequiel Lavezzi will miss the Copa America Centenario final after it was confirmed he suffered an elbow fracture in Argentina's semi-final win over the United States on Wednesday (AEST).
Lavezzi, who scored the game's opener inside four minutes - was forced off in the second half of their 4-0 win against USA after landing awkwardly when he tumbled over an advertising board in Houston.
The Hebei China Fortune forward leapt up for a header but was too close to the hoardings, appearing to land badly on his neck.
After being taken away on a stretcher, medics confirmed the 31-year-old suffered a radial fracture in his left elbow.
The injury will need surgery, ruling Lavezzi out of the Copa America final on Monday.
Argentina will be hoping to end its 23-year wait for a major trophy in the decider, where it will meet either defending champion Chile or Colombia.
