In a recent interview with ESPN Argentina’s Martin Arevalo, Lionel Messi revealed his two most cherished goals from his illustrious career.
Out of the more than 800 goals he has scored for his clubs and national team, Messi selected only two as his personal favorites.
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The first is a stunning goal against Real Madrid during the 2011 Champions League semi-final first-leg, which he described as the most aesthetically pleasing.
The second is a crucial goal against France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, which he considers the most significant of his career.
“My favorite goal? Most beautiful is the one against Real Madrid in 2011, and the most important in the World Cup final,” Messi said.
In his latest interview, Messi shared his two most treasured goals from his career.
While he did not specify which goal against Real Madrid in the 2011 Champions League semi-final first leg he was referring to, it is widely believed that he was talking about the second goal. This goal is often hailed as one of the most iconic solo efforts in Barcelona’s history.
Messi’s second goal in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final is also considered one of the most pivotal moments of his career. It gave Argentina a 3-2 lead over France, who had previously tied the game at 2-2.
Although Messi scored a penalty early in the 23rd minute of the final, it seems he did not consider it among his favorites.
On April 27, 2011, Messi scored two memorable goals against Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final. The match ended with Barcelona’s victory, thanks to Messi’s contributions.
In the 76th minute, Xavi’s cross from the right wing was met by Ibrahim Afellay, who wrong-footed Marcelo and delivered a cross into the penalty area. Messi navigated through the defense to score.
The second goal came in the 87th minute when Real Madrid was pushing hard for an equalizer. Messi received a pass from Sergio Busquets and dribbled past the entire defense to score in the left corner.
Barcelona won the match 2-0 and eventually secured their fourth Champions League title that season under Pep Guardiola’s management.
The other goal Messi mentioned was Argentina’s decisive strike in the 108th minute of the 2022 FIFA World Cup final against France.
After a tense regulation time that ended in a 2-2 draw, Argentina surged ahead in extra time. Gonzalo Montiel’s chip led to Lautaro Martinez passing to Messi, who then scored after a rebound from Hugo Lloris’ save.
Despite France equalizing with Kylian Mbappe’s penalty (118′), Argentina triumphed in the penalty shootout and won 4-2. Messi also received the Golden Ball award for his outstanding performance in the tournament.
