Lionel Messi will forever cherish one spectacular goal among his remarkable career tally of 848 goals. It is certainly surprising to hear about it.
The legendary Argentine footballer Lionel Messi surprised everyone with his answer when asked about his favorite goal out of his 848 career goals. It was the goal that brought down arch-rival Real Madrid in an El Clasico match.
Lionel Messi’s illustrious career is truly something to envy in the world of sports, as his goals, victories, and titles have carved out an era in the world of football. However, there is one moment that stands out more for him than any other – facing off against Real Madrid.
Messi’s extraordinary ball control in front of the goal and his football talent have brought numerous benefits to both his club and national team. Quickly becoming Barcelona’s lucky charm after his debut in 2005, he has spent the majority of his career at Camp Nou.
As of his departure in 2021, he has scored 672 goals for the Camp Nou team and achieved every possible record and accolade at the club level during this period.
After spending 2 years with PSG, he moved to Inter Miami, with a career total of 848 goals. Despite scoring in the Champions League final for Barcelona and leading Argentina to the World Cup twice, it turns out that he does not consider these goals the most beautiful ones.
Messi’s unforgettable goal against Real Madrid in 2011
In reality, the goal that Messi is most proud of is a classic solo run, dribbling past 4 players from Real Madrid before calmly slotting the ball into the net. This remarkable goal took place at Real Madrid’s famous Bernabeu stadium, during the semi-final match of the 2011/12 Champions League season.
Messi single-handedly defeated Real with a mesmerizing performance. Breaking the deadlock in the 76th minute, he skillfully dribbled past four defenders – Lassana Diarra, Sergio Ramos, Raul Albiol, and Marcelo – before finally beating goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
At that time, both teams were locked in a fierce battle for dominance in both La Liga and the Champions League, with the rivalry between managers Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho at its peak.
The goal helped the La Liga giants secure a spot in the grand finals at the magnificent Wembley Stadium, where they ultimately defeated Sir Alex Ferguson’s Man United with a scoreline of 3-1.
Explaining the reason behind his choice, he told France Football, “Well, I always say that special goals are important. For me, this goal is even more special than a goal in the Champions League final or the World Cup final.”