10 Iconic Shots That Prove Messi’s Global Greatness
These unforgettable moments show how Lionel Messi became more than a football star — he became a worldwide symbol of greatness.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Lionel Messi has delivered countless jaw-dropping moments on the pitch, but a few shots stand above the rest. These iconic goals and images capture the brilliance, precision, and emotion that define his global impact. Each one tells a story — of records broken, titles clinched, and crowds left speechless.
1. A Strike to Remember at Chase Stadium
Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
On May 31, 2025, Messi scored a brilliant goal against the Columbus Crew during the first half at Chase Stadium. The finish was cool and clinical, but the roar from the Fort Lauderdale crowd made it feel like a championship moment. Even in MLS, Messi continues to make magic look routine.
2. The Free Kick That Silenced BC Place
Anne-Marie Sorvin-Imagn Images
On April 24, 2025, Messi lined up for a second-half free kick against the Vancouver Whitecaps at BC Place. The stadium held its breath as he curled it with that signature left foot — perfect angle, perfect power. Even thousands of miles from Miami, his brilliance felt right at home.
3. A Massive MLS Clash in Cleveland
Troy Magers/News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Lionel Messi faced off against the Columbus Crew at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland in one of the season’s most hyped matchups. The energy was electric, and every touch Messi made felt like a moment waiting to happen. It was more than a game; it was a statement on how big the MLS has become.
4. Sealing the 2022 World Cu Final
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
When Messi scored in the World Cup final against France, the stadium erupted like it never had before. His calm finish in the extra time proved he could carry the weight of an entire nation. It was history unfolding in real time.
5. The Wonder Ship Over Manuel Neuer
Tim Heitman-Imagn Images
In the 2015 Champions League semi-final, Messi’s chip over Neuer looked effortless — but it stunned the best goalkeeper in the world. The shot came seconds after he sent Jérôme Boateng to the ground with a fake-out. It was clinical, cheeky, and pure Messi.
6. Holding the Golden Ball and the World’s Attention
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
On December 18, 2022, Messi held the Golden Ball trophy after Argentina’s unforgettable World Cup win over France at Lusail Stadium. It was the moment everything came full circle — years of pressure, heartbreak, and brilliance led to that smile. That image became a global symbol of greatness fulfilled.
7. Instant Chemistry at Inter Miami
John David Mercer-Imagn Images
On July 25, 2023, Messi celebrated a first-half goal with teammate Robert Taylor during a dominant showing against Atlanta United at DRV PNK Stadium. The connection was quick, the finish was clean, and the crowd was all in. That match showed Inter Miami fans exactly what they had been hoping for.
8. That Solo Run in the Champions League Final
GEPA/Imagn Images
Against Manchester United in 2011, Messi zig-zagged through midfield and unleashed a low rocket into the net. It stunned one of the best defenses in Europe. That final was not just a win; it was a masterclass.
9. Late Heroics in Texas
Matthew Emmons-Imagn Images
On September 8, 2015, Messi scored a second-half goal for Argentina against Mexico at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The match was slipping away until he stepped up with a signature finish that salvaged a draw. Even in a friendly, he had the crowd on its feet like it was a final.
10. That Final Walk with the World Cup Trophy
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
As Messi strolled through the Qatar stadium in 2022, cradling the World Cup, it felt like the universe had finally balanced itself. Fans wept, cheered, and stood in awe. No shot captures his global greatness more than that golden walk.