20 On-Field Shots That Prove Lionel Messi Is a Genius
These 20 jaw-dropping photos capture Lionel Messi’s brilliance, instinct, and magic in real-time action.
- Chris Graciano
- 5 min read
Lionel Messi’s genius isn’t just his stats. It’s in the moments where time seems to freeze as he weaves through defenders or bends a ball into the net. His movements are poetry, and the camera lens has immortalized some of his most spellbinding plays. These 20 on-field shots showcase exactly why Messi is more than just a footballer — he’s a living masterpiece.
1. 2014 World Cup Final Heartbreak
Witters Sport-Imagn Images
In the 2014 World Cup Final against Germany, Messi’s dejection was palpable as he walked past the trophy after the 1-0 defeat. The image of him staring blankly captures the weight of a nation’s expectations and the pain of coming so close.
2. 2015 Copa América Final Loss
Matthew Emmons-Imagn Images
During the 2015 Copa América Final, Argentina faced Chile in a tense match that ended in a penalty shootout loss. Messi’s visible frustration and disappointment were evident as he received his runner-up medal.
3. 2016 Copa América Centenario Final Loss
Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
Following Argentina’s loss to Chile in the 2016 Copa América Centenario Final, Messi was captured in tears, announcing his retirement from international football shortly after. Caught mid-lob, Messi gently lifts the ball over one of the world’s best goalkeepers. The moment is quiet, elegant, deadly. Neuer is helpless; Messi is effortless.
4. Leaving Boateng Behind – 2015 vs. Bayern Munich
Matthew Emmons-Imagn Images
The image of Jerome Boateng collapsing as Messi glides past is iconic — a blur of motion, balance, and timing. One cut sent a world-class defender to the turf.
5. 2018 World Cup Exit Against France
Witters Sport-Imagn Images
Argentina’s 4-3 loss to France in the 2018 World Cup Round of 16 was a heartbreaking exit. A photo of Messi walking off the pitch, head down, encapsulates the disappointment of another early tournament exit.
6. Walking Through Nigeria’s Defense – 2018 World Cup
Sipa USA-Imagn Images
This shot captures the ball glued to Messi’s foot as he tiptoes through defenders in the box. The timing, angles, and touch were flawless.
7. Goal and Assist vs. Croatia – 2022 World Cup Semifinal
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
In a commanding 3-0 win over Croatia, Messi opened the scoring with a coolly converted penalty and later delivered a jaw-dropping assist to Julián Álvarez. The photo of him twisting past defender Joško Gvardiol, one of the tournament’s standout defenders, shows unmatched control and footwork.
8. 2022 Finalissima Victory Against Italy
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
In the 2022 Finalissima, Argentina defeated Italy 3-0, with Messi providing two assists and earning the Man of the Match award. The image of him lifting the trophy at Wembley Stadium showcases his continued excellence on the international stage.
9. 2022 World Cup Group Stage Goal Against Mexico
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
After a shocking loss to Saudi Arabia, Argentina faced Mexico in a crucial group stage match. Messi’s long-range goal broke the deadlock, reigniting Argentina’s campaign.
10. 2022 World Cup Final Victory Over France
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
In a thrilling final against France, Messi scored twice and led Argentina to a 4-2 penalty shootout victory after a 3-3 draw. The image of him lifting the World Cup trophy is iconic, representing the pinnacle of his career.
11. Celebrating 2008 Olympic Game Win vs. Brazil
Jerry Lai-Imagn Images
After a gritty 3-0 win against Brazil in Beijing, China, Messi, though not fully fit, played the full match and was visibly emotional as the final whistle blew. The photo of him hugging teammates, smiling through fatigue, captures relief and national pride.
12. Celebrating with the Fans – Copa America 2024 Final
Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Messi leaps into the crowd, arms open, emotion pouring out. The photo oozes relief, joy, and legacy. The years of heartbreak were finally reversed.
13. The Assist Without Looking – vs. Croatia, 2022 World Cup
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
Camera catches Messi faking one way, then threading a no-look pass through a tiny gap. The moment stuns defenders and viewers alike.
14. Sprinting Past Marcelo – El Clásico 2011
GEPA/Imagn Images
This still of Messi breezing past one of the fastest defenders in the world says it all. Marcelo lunges, and Messi glides. There was speed and elegance in one stride.
15. Balancing Ball on Thigh – Training Photo
Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Even in practice, Messi mesmerizes. The ball sits motionless on his thigh as he grins. It’s casual magic. Genius doesn’t clock out.
16. Dragging Argentina to the Final – 2014 World Cup
Witters Sport-Imagn Images
This image captures a solo run through midfield, dragging his tired body and his nation with him. It was sweat and grit all over — heroism, not hype.
17. Laughing Mid-Dribble – 2024 vs. New York Red Bulls
Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Messi, ball at his feet, grinning mid-run while defenders chase. He’s enjoying it more than anyone. It was not just talent; there was joy in his expression.
18. Left-Footed Rocket vs. Mexico – 2015
Matthew Emmons-Imagn Images
The ball is mid-flight, heading for the top corner as defenders watch frozen. It’s all power and finesse — a left foot built for magic.
19. One-Hand Pointing to the Sky – Tribute Celebration
Mike DiNovo-Imagn Images
Captured after scoring, Messi points to the heavens — his iconic tribute to his grandmother. It was a quiet, consistent, and deeply personal moment. The genius never forgets his roots.
20. Lifting the World Cup – 2022
Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
Messi holds the trophy, surrounded by gold confetti and adoring teammates. The smile, the sparkle, and the story were captured. This photo didn’t show a goal or assist, but it showed the full circle.