“At 0–0 in a Champions League group tie, Messi finishes off a Mbappé combination to break the deadlock for PSG, the first strike in a 7–2 masterclass that also pushes him to an extraordinary 128 goals in the competition and 783 in his career.”
With 2 goals and 2 assists in a Champions League group tie, Messi orchestrates PSG’s attacking avalanche at 35 years old, turning a routine night against Maccabi Haifa into one of his most complete late-career European showcases.
From a tight central pocket with defenders closing, Messi coolly lifts a delicate lob over the advancing Levante keeper to finally break the 0–0 deadlock, his trademark left-foot touch turning this winning goal into career strike number 309.
Ronaldinho scoops a pass over the defence and Messi, almost side-on to goal, delicately lifts a first-time lob over the onrushing keeper, sealing the win and marking his very first Barcelona and La Liga goal.
From just inside the box, Messi calmly lifts a delicate left‑footed lob over the onrushing Rayo keeper to double Barça’s lead, a composed chip that also brings up his 227th La Liga goal and 373rd of his career.
Against Real Sociedad, Messi meets a bouncing ball with a crisp left‑footed half‑volley that skids through to stretch Barça’s lead to 3–1 just before half-time, continuing his hot scoring streak and bringing him to 171 La Liga goals.