CAM REPORT

Argentina star Lionel Messi will not play in Monday's Copa America opener against Chile in Santa Clara, Calif., Diarrio As reported.

According to the report, although Argentina's medical team was noncommittal about the decision, it has been determined that Messi's lower-back injury will prevent him from playing.

The decision is at least in part preventative, so that Messi will be able to participate in Argentina's other Copa America games. Argentina is in action again Friday in group play when it faces Panama in Chicago.

Messi sustained the injury May 27 in a 1-0 friendly victory over Honduras in which he was kneed in the back. He was diagnosed afterward with a deep bone bruise in the lower lumbar region.

Diarrio As reported that the Barcelona star continues to feel pain in his lower back.

Messi has jogged only twice since arriving in California, the second session being of a lower intensity than the first, ESPN FC reported, citing unidentified sources with knowledge of the situation.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner and Barcelona star joined his national team Friday, arriving late from Spain where he and his father are on trial for tax evasion.