November 02, (THEWILL) – Barcelona legend, Lionel Messi, has chosen his sensational solo goal against Real Madrid in the 2011 UEFA Champions League semi-final as his favourite strike from his illustrious career. The Argentine superstar recented clinched a record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or title after inspiring his nation to World Cup glory last year.
With over 800 senior goals for club and country, the 35-year-old had no shortage of spectacular efforts to choose from. However, when asked about his favourite goal after claiming his latest Ballon d’Or, Messi singled out his mesmerising run and finish against rivals Real Madrid over a decade ago.
“I always say that the important goals are special. To have scored in a Champions League final, or now in a World Cup final… But a goal I always remember is against Real Madrid, when we beat them 2-0 in that Champions League semi-final at the Bernabeu,” Messi stated.
The mazy dribble saw Messi pick up the ball in midfield before drifting past five Madrid players and slotting past Iker Casillas. It sent Barcelona into the 2011 final, with Messi also netting in that win as well.
Over his European career, the legendary number 10 scored 129 Champions League goals and won the competition four times. The 2011 Pep Guardiola Barcelona side starring Messi is considered one of the greatest club teams in football history.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
