Lionel Messi doesn't play for Argentina vs. Peru: Why World Cup winner was rested in Copa America clash

The superstar's status for the quarterfinals has yet to be determined

As Argentina defeated Peru 2-0 to complete a perfect group stage at Copa America, there was a familiar name missing in Lionel Messi. The Argentine number 10 was a doubt for the match with a hamstring injury but Lionel Scaloni was already planning heavy rotation due to already advancing to the knockout stages with Messi being placed on the bench. 

Following Argentina's victory over Chile, Messi said that he felt an issue with his hamstring in the first half but received treatment during the break to continue on in the match. With only one assist in two matches started, Messi has had a slower-than-expected start to Copa America but that hasn't slowed La Albiceleste down from winning their opening two matches while not conceding a goal.

"I felt some discomfort in my right hamstring at the beginning of the game. It was tight. It wasn't as loose as it should've been. But I was able to finish the game. We'll see how it goes," Messi said following the match on Tuesday. "In the first play, my adductor got hard. I didn't feel a puncture or a tear, but I did find it difficult to move freely."