Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine footballer who recently claimed his record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or award, has revealed his favorite goal from his illustrious career. The Argentina captain secured the prestigious award after leading his national team to a World Cup victory in December, beating out competition from Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain, respectively.
Messi has an impressive collection of memorable goals in his career, including those scored in the Champions League and World Cup finals. When asked about his favorite goal during a conversation with France Football, he pinpointed a particular moment that stood out for him, even though he doesn’t necessarily consider it the best of his career.
Does Leo Messi have a favorite goal in his career?
— Ballon d'Or #ballondor (@ballondor) November 1, 2023
Yes, there is one… 🤓#ballondor pic.twitter.com/1fxdKWaTnz
The goal in question is his remarkable slaloming run and finish against Real Madrid in the 2011 Champions League semi-final, a match in which Barcelona defeated their arch-rivals 2-0 at the Bernabeu. Despite the numerous extraordinary goals he has scored throughout his career, Messi emphasized the importance of goals in significant matches, like the Champions League and World Cup finals.
In his own words, Messi explained, “Well, I always say that special goals are the important thing, to have scored in the Champions League final, to have now scored in the final of the World Cup. I don’t know, a goal that I always remember, and I don’t go much for the goal and for what the goals mean. It’s the goal against Real Madrid, which we beat 2-0 in that Champions League semi-final in the Bernabeu. The most significant goals are the more important ones.”
Messi’s preference for goals that carry great importance in crucial matches showcases his passion for the game and his desire to shine on the grandest stages of football.
😮 Voted the 3rd best goal in Barça's history…
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 1, 2019
This Leo Messi dribble against Real Madrid 🔥🔥🔥#UCL #BarçaBestGoalEver pic.twitter.com/G7Gwn0zSno