Tag: Messi

Lionel Messi: The Phenomenon’s MLS Sojourn and the Legacy He Leaves Behind

Post author By James Brown
Post date October 20, 2023
No Comments on Lionel Messi: The Phenomenon’s MLS Sojourn and the Legacy He Leaves Behind

Lionel Messi’s dazzling performance at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has etched his name indelibly in the annals of sports history. Leading Argentina to victory with a thrilling penalty shootout, Messi’s world championship triumph became a memorable chapter in his illustrious career. As we stride into 2023, Argentina continues to bask in the afterglow of their World Cup victory, celebrating their footballing hero.

However, the narrative took an unexpected turn upon Messi’s return to France, where he was plying his trade for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The media was awash with reports of his purported discontent at the Parisian club, and offers from football giants commensurate with his stature flooded in.

It was, therefore, nothing short of a global shock when Messi announced his intention to move to a lesser-known team, Inter Miami FC, based in Florida, United States. This marked a significant shift, as Messi left behind the glitz of Paris for a new adventure in Major League Soccer (MLS). At the helm of this ambitious MLS expansion side was none other than former England, Manchester United, and Real Madrid star David Beckham.

Beyond the confines of the football pitch, Messi’s decision was a shrewd investment, capturing the imagination of football enthusiasts worldwide. Inter Miami’s Messi jersey sold out within a mere 24 hours, setting a new benchmark by eclipsing the previous record held by Cristiano Ronaldo.

The signing was not just about acquiring a footballing legend; it was about catapulting Major League Soccer into the global football conversation. As Simon Evans, the US Sports Correspondent for AFP, aptly put it, “I think what Messi’s done already is become a national focal point for MLS, which they haven’t had before.”

Messi, at 36 years old, had no guarantees to transform Inter Miami’s fortunes on the field. Yet, the man affectionately known as ‘La Pulga’ (Little Pea) is demonstrating once again why he is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. Messi has led Inter Miami to their first-ever trophy, clinching the Golden Boot after securing victory in the League Cup.

To cap it off, he was bestowed with the title of Player of the Tournament. A six-week hiatus followed, and when the domestic campaign resumed, Inter Miami found themselves at the bottom of the table before Messi’s arrival. However, his MLS debut featured a sublime goal and an emphatic win, marking the perfect renaissance for the club.

While Messi received lucrative offers from various quarters, his move to the United States proved to be the right choice within just three months. The Saudi Pro League’s audacious acquisition of football luminaries like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar, reportedly offering a staggering €370 million-per-year deal to Messi, stirred considerable buzz. This sum significantly surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo’s earnings at Al-Nassr, the Riyadh-based club.

For many, the tantalizing prospect of Messi’s return to Barcelona held a special allure. Such a transfer would have provided closure after his remarkable 21-year tenure, culminating in an emotional farewell in 2021. Barcelona supporters like Romàn de Arquer reflected on the emotional rollercoaster of those times, saying, “We were heartbroken… But I mean, in the end, we have to move on. What can we do? You know, at least we have all those memories from Leo Messi, and I’m sure he’ll be back in the club, even if it’s not as a player.”

As the Ballon d’Or ceremony looms, there is the intriguing possibility of Messi adding an eighth Ballon d’Or award to his record-breaking cabinet later this year. If recognized as the most significant individual in football, it would be another fitting tribute to this superstar’s enduring excellence.

However, having a star of Messi’s magnitude brings its own set of challenges. Managing his game-time at 36 is crucial, and Inter Miami’s owners and manager, Gerard Martimo, must balance keeping their fans happy while ensuring their marquee player’s well-being.

Miami Ultras fans are ready to go to great lengths, paying up to 460 euros for match-day tickets to witness the legend in action. For Lionel Messi, his sojourn in the United States has marked a fantastic start, not only for Inter Miami but for Major League Soccer as a whole. It’s a total game-changer that reaffirms Messi’s enduring status as one of the greatest players of all time.

Tags Messi, Soccer

Football (Premier League)

Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football

Post author By Robert Jackson
Post date June 4, 2022
No Comments on Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football

What defines a rivalry? Is it the football? Is it the hatred amongst fans? Or is it the brawls? We think a mixture of it all makes a rivalry perfect. Often the most interesting and widely revered rivalries are the ones which involve the most hatred. People love to see the drama. And, of course, a great advert for football as well. Derbies often have red cards just flying around. Tackles all over the place, moments of magic followed by pure chaos, and all of it is magical. And that’s what makes this sport so special. Now, here’s a list of the Top 10 Rivalries in Football.

North West Derby

(Liverpool vs. Manchester United)

Record:

Liverpool- 69 Wins

Manchester United- 81 Wins

Draws: 58

The rivalry between the two biggest and the most successful clubs in England. And two of the biggest clubs in the World. Rivalry fueled by the hatred amongst fans of the belonging regions. Their historic and economic rivalry. And fueled by the desire to win. Both of the teams have seen a period of dominance over the land of England. And the matches are as heated as they can get. And they put out a great showcase of football. With star players all over the pitch. Liverpool vs. Manchester United is box office entertainment, and the world of football is glued to their screens whenever these two teams play each other. And they rank 10th on this list of Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football.

They are going to face each other on the 20th you can watch it on Hotstar.

Cairo Derby

(Al Ahly Sc vs Zamalek)

Record:

Al Ahly- 105 Wins.

Zamalek- 58 Wins

Draws: 79

A derby between arguably the two biggest clubs in Africa and the biggest in Egypt. It tends to get very heated and violent. The fans of both clubs are very passionate about their teams and act in anger and hatred towards the other. Such as, a match in the 1971-72 season with a case of violence caused the match and ultimately the whole season to be called off. Numerous fights, injuries, and deaths have been reported before matters became more controlled due to Egypt’s authoritarian regime.

Yet many fights and riots still occur after derby matches between both sets of fans, leading the government to post even higher numbers of Central Security Forces troops in the stadium during the derby. The number of fights has increased with the increasing popularity of the “ultras” movement. The team that wins during their meeting more often than not wins the Egypt Cup, and the one with the higher aggregate score wins the Egyptian Premier League. The teams facing off is a mouth-watering prospect, and they rank 9th on this list of Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football.

Fla Flu

(Flamengo vs Fluminense)

Flamengo- 159 Wins

Fluminense- 138 Wins

Draws: 141

The most iconic rivalry in Brazil. It is played between the city rivals Flamengo and Fluminense. This match is played at the iconic Macarena stadium. It is one of the oldest rivalries in football. This rivalry consists of everything: red cards, brawls, and a whole lot of history. A fixture that recorded the highest attendance in a football match ever with a mind-blowing 194,603, a record which will never ever be broken. This ranks 8th on this list of Top 10 Biggest Rivalries in Football.

Also Read: Top 10 Most Expensive Football Trophies in the World

Revierderby

( Dortmund vs. Schalke)

Schalke- 60 Wins

Dortmund- 55 Wins.

Draws: 43

The fiercest one in German football. Schalke and Dortmund are neighbor clubs and are fierce rivals. The fanbases loathe each other. It is the most looked forward to derby in German Football. Schalke used to be the top dog in this derby. But they have fallen off and did get relegated last season. Dortmund has had the upper hand over the last few seasons. Schalke fans will be hoping it changes soon.

Dortmund vs Schalke — Dortmund vs. Schalke

Derby della Madonnina

(AC Milan vs. Inter Milan)

Inter Wins- 84

Milan Wins- 78

Draws- 69

A legendary fixture of two teams that share a stadium. Two of the biggest teams in Italy. Clubs that have great history and pedigree. And have been so legendary. A fixture that is a hallmark in Italian Football. Furthermore, it is a worldwide anticipated fixture. A fixture where both teams give it they’re all for bragging rights. Fights, riots, and whatnot, this legendary match has seen it all. Legends wherever you look. A truly great advert of the beautiful game.

Derby of The Eternal Enemies

(Panathinaikos vs Olampiacos)

Panathinaikos wins: 52

Olympiacos Wins: 86

Draws: 72

The biggest, fiercest rivalry in Greece. It is one of the most revered games in football worldwide. And this rivalry goes way beyond football. This rivalry stems from the cultural and political differences of the people in the areas. Red cards and tackles were flying all around. It makes up for a great spectacle.

De Klassieker

Ajax vs Feyenoord

Ajax wins: 92

Feyenoord wins: 59

Draws: 48

This rivalry goes way beyond just football. It is as fierce as it can get. It transcends into the rivalry between the cities Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Since the 70s, there have been many clashes between the supporters of both clubs, of which Beverwijk in 1997 was infamous. One Ajax fan, Carlo Picornie, was beaten to death by rival supporters, triggering more strict policies from the Dutch football association KNVB to tackle hooliganism. As a result of the incident, the two Klassiekers in 1997/98 were played without away fans. And there have been many more incidents since. It tends to get very ugly.

El Clasico

Real Madrid vs Barcelona

Real Madrid wins: 100.

Barcelona wins: 97

Draws: 52

As big a game as it can get. Legends everywhere. The biggest advert of football. Although it isn’t as legendary as it was, but it’s still one of the biggest fixtures in football. Not many fixtures are bigger than this. A rivalry like no other. It has everything: red cards, tackles, fights, charisma, and some spectacular goals.

Old Firm derby

Celtic vs. Rangers

Another one from the UK. The fiercest rivalry in the area. Scotland’s two most successful clubs. It gets very intense whenever they meet. And as good as it can get. An important date in the football calendar. Both sets of supporters are very, very passionate about their clubs. It makes the fixture special. A great watch.

Superclasico

River Plate vs. Boca Juniors.

The greatest rivalry in all of football. The both teams hate each other. It is the biggest one in Argentina. It gets ugly whenever they meet. Boca vs. River Plate is the biggest rivalry in the world due to the history and football involved.

Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Football Transfers of All Time

Tags AC Milan, Barcelona, Brazil, Cristiano Ronaldo, France, Germany, Inter Milan, Liverpool, Manchester United, Messi, Real Madrid

Football (Premier League)

Teams That Have Qualified for the World Cup

Post author By Robert Jackson
Post date June 2, 2022
No Comments on Teams That Have Qualified for the World Cup

The World Cup is a tournament that comes around once every 4 years. The biggest prize in Football. As big a sporting event as you can get. The one coveted prize that every player wants to have. This time the special tournament is being held in Qatar in winters. Beginning in the middle of November and ending in December. This is going to be the final World Cup of many old stars and will be the first one of many young ones. The FIFA World Cup is the most-watched sporting event all over the world. And this year won’t be any exception to that rule as well. Most of the teams that will play have already qualified. Here is the list of teams from each continent that have qualified for the World Cup up to now

Europe:

1. England

The one time World Cup winners have a great squad this year. And have proven that they can do well in the international tournaments now. By proving their worth in 2018 World Cup, where they reached the semis and reaching the finals in Euro 2021. They are very strong on paper.

2. Germany

The Germans are always there in the World Cup. The record winners of the competition in Europe. They are a force to be reckoned with due to having a good talent pool and a world class manager in Hansi Flick, which makes all the difference. The Germans will be fighting for the title desperately.

3. France

Perhaps, the favorites of this year’s edition. The former winners have a very squad strong on paper. And, they would like to negate the terrible Euro’s they had. France are the strong favourite for World Cup, but that’s not how football works. It will be a great experience following them in this year’s edition.

4. Netherlands

The Dutch have qualified for the World Cup by winning their group. They didn’t qualify for the last World Cup, which was held in Russia. The team led by Virgil Van Dijk will be gunning for this year’s edition and will hope to bring their country their first-ever World Cup.

5. Serbia

The serbians surprisingly topped their qualification group, which consisted of Portugal. Even so, they have a good squad which gives them a fighting chance. Their supporters would be in an absolutely joyous mood and will enjoy the ride.

6. Croatia

The last time’s finalists. The country led by Luka Modric is perhaps not as strong as they were in the last edition. But they’ve still got good talent and a very strong midfield of Kovacic and Modric. They will fight with everything they have.

7. Belgium

This is maybe the last World Cup of Belgium’s golden generation. And, their final chance at glory. Belgium have a very strong squad. With Kevin De Bruyne, Lukaku, Eden Hazard and Thorgan Hazard. The last time’s semi finalists will be looking to go all the way this year.

8. Spain

The one time World Cup winners had a pretty bad World Cup last time around. The Spanish were facing a lot of struggles and failures in the recent past. But, the arrival of Luis Enrique has changed their fate. They now look like a very good squad with great system. And they will be looking for redemption this year.

9. Denmark

Euro’s semi finalists. The Dane’s are perhaps the dark horses of this year’s World Cup. They have a very able squad on paper. They will be looking to get something out of this year’s edition.

10. Switzerland

The Swiss have a very able team as well. Their midfield can dominate anyone on a given day. They have a fighting chance at this World Cup, and will be fun following them around for their supporters.

11. Portugal

Most probably the last World Cup of Cristiano Ronaldo’s career. The only prize that eludes him over his very, very illustrious career. The Portugal team is as good as it has ever been on paper. They will be gunning for this World Cup. And Ronaldo will want to lead them to glory this year. They are good contenders in this edition.

12. Poland

Team led by Robert Lewandowski. Poland aren’t a very strong squad. But they will be giving their all in this year’s edition. And put on a show that their fans will remember for ages.

One of Wales, Scotland, or Ukraine will complete the set of European qualifications by June.

South America:

1. Brazil

The number 1 ranked team in the world at the moment. Brazil has a very strong squad. And are probably the favorites alongside France for this year’s World Cup. The record winners have qualified for every single World Cup ever. And, it wouldn’t be a World Cup with Brazil. They will absolutely favor their chances and will hope to achieve the Coveted Prize.

2. Argentina

This is probably Lionel Messi’s last World Cup as well. He will be absolutely desperate for it. The only prize that has eluded the great man so far. He will look to rewrite the history in 2014 when he lost the final. This is probably the best Argentinian team there has been in his career, and he will look to lead them to glory.

3. Ecuador

Ecuador are not very strong on paper. But they will be fighting for their lives in this World Cup and look to salvage anything they can.

4. Uruguay

Uruguay has a very good squad. And this is probably the last World Cup of their lethal strike partnership in Edison Cavani and Luis Suarez. They will be hoping to have a strong return in this World Cup.

Peru have a chance of becoming the fifth team from South America to qualify in June.

North America/ Caribbean:

1. USA

This is the best team USA has ever produced. They have a plethora of talent coming through their ranks. And, will be one of watch out this season. Potential dark horses of the tournament. The big countries shouldn’t underestimate USA this year.

2. Canada

A big moment for the Canadians. They are a good squad on paper, with Alphonso Davies being their star. They will bring the fight to the other teams.

3. Mexico

Mexico has a fairly competitive team this time around. They will look to test the other teams and hopefully make it far in this tournament.

Costa Rica has a chance of becoming the 4th team from the continent later in the qualifiers.

Africa:

1. Senegal

The strongest team in Africa. The current AFCON champions. Senegal are not to be underestimated in this year’s edition. They have a very strong squad spearheaded by Sadio Mane. They will be a dangerous opponent for everyone.

2. Ghana

Ghana qualified for this World Cup by beating the favorites in Nigeria. They have a good squad. With a strong midfield. They will bring the fight to everyone they face in this World Cup.

3. Tunisia

Tunisia will strive to make this a World Cup their fans will remember for the rest of their lives. They are a good team who will hope to achieve great things this year.

4. Morocco

Morocco will be gunning for this year’s edition. They will be striving to achieve great things this year. They will bring the fight to everyone that faces them. Their fans will hope they have a good tournament.

5. Cameroon

Cameroon beat Algeria in the most dramatic fashion to qualify for the World Cup. It was an absolute roller coaster ride for everyone watching that game. Cameroon have shown that they can battle it out with the stronger teams. And they will strive to achieve great things in this World Cup.

Asia:

1. Qatar

The hosts which have automatically qualified for the World Cup. This will be their first-ever World Cup, and will be looking to salvage something out of it.

2. Iran

The Iran team looks good on paper. This is their 6th World Cup, and they will be bringing the fight to everyone.

3. Japan

The Japanese have a good squad. And are very well-rounded. They will be hoping to achieve great things in this year’s World Cup.

4. South Korea

This will be their 11th World Cup. Which is the highest amongst Asian teams. The South Korean team lead by Heung Min Son, is a strong outfit and can surprise anyone.

5. Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Arabians will look to give their supporters a World Cup to be cherished. They will be striving for a strong finish.

The two teams from Oceania, which are Australia and New Zealand, also have a chance at qualifying for the World Cup. Which will be decided in June.

Also Read: Barcelona vs Cadiz: Match Highlights, Scores And Much More.

Tags Benzema, Football, France, Germany, Lewandowski, Mane, Messi, Neymar, Ronaldo, Suarez, World Cup

Football (Premier League)

Top 10 Greatest Barcelona Players of All Time

Post author By Robert Jackson
Post date May 16, 2022
No Comments on Top 10 Greatest Barcelona Players of All Time

Barca — Barcelona's famous logo Mes que un club

One of the biggest clubs in the history of the game. The greatest of history and legacies. With several once-in-a-lifetime players. The Spanish giants Futbol Club Barcelona. F.C.B was founded in 1899. Across its 122 years of existence, the club has seen some legends of the game. And as a result, has seen huge amounts of success. The Catalan club has won a record number of Copa Del Rey’s, 5 Champions League, and the second-most league titles in Spain (behind Real Madrid). Although, the club has seen a fall from grace in the past few years. Owing to the problems on the field and off the field. Barca went into a financial turmoil under previous leadership. As a result, they have been suffering currently, and owing to the shambles of a wage structure and sizeable debt, they had to let go of Lionel Messi. Barcelona are currently on the rise again under Xavi. As we know, you can’t keep a giant like Barcelona sleeping for long. On that note, here are the Top 10 Greatest Barcelona Players of All Time.

10. Luis Suarez

61 Goals (114 Appearances)

Not to be mistaken with the other Luis Suarez, who also played for Barcelona. Suarez was a Spanish midfielder. And is widely regarded as the greatest Spanish player of all time. To this date, he is the only Spanish player to win the Ballon D’or. And was the first Barcelona player to do so. Luis scored over 60 goals for the great club. Suarez was a key figure in their domestic double in 1959 and fell just short of European glory as they lost the final to Benfica in 1961. The Spanish great ranks 10th on this list of the Top 10 Greatest Barcelona players of all time.

9. Sergio Busquets

16 Goals (670* Appearances)

“Underrated” “Underappreciated” are the sort of words you would associate with the Spaniard. Busquets doesn’t have the plaudits the other two of his midfield partners, Xavi and Iniesta, received, but Sergio was just as important to the team’s success as the other two were. One of the greatest CDM’s the game has ever seen. Sergio has won every trophy at the club level with the Catalans. Furthermore, he has won the World Cup and the Euros with Spain. He was an integral part of one of the greatest club team’s ever assembled, and one of the greatest National team’s ever assembled. You don’t walk into those teams’ if you are not ‘World Class’. As a result, he ranks 9th in the top 10 Greatest Barcelona players of all-time list.

8. Ronald Koeman

106 Goals (350 Appearances)

A goal tally that would put forwards to shame. Ronald Koeman was an integral part of the 90’s Barca dream team. The team that won their first European cup. It was his goal that won Barca their first European title and as a result, secured his legendary status at the club. He was a “sweeper” defender. Would just stay in front of the defense and clear every threat. The masterful Dutch was quite good at it as well. He was a great threat at set pieces. He was a great Penalty tacker and a great Free Kick taker as well. ‘Tin-tin’ Koeman has scored 60 Free Kicks for club and country, to put that into perspective, that is more than what Cristiano and Messi have scored throughout their careers. He also tried as a manager for the club, but that didn’t work out well for him. But, his managerial stint at the club doesn’t tarnish his legacy as a Barca legend and a great of the game.

Barcelona players of all time — Luis Suarez’s trademark celebration

7. Luis Suarez

210 Goals (300 Appearances).

‘El Pistolero’ is, without a shadow of a doubt, one of the greatest strikers this game has ever seen. His time at Barcelona was phenomenal, to say the least. A testament to his skill and ability is that he won a golden boot during the Cristiano and Messi era. As lethal as he is in front of the goal, he is a great passer as well as a great space creator for others to benefit from. Luis Suarez is as complete a striker as you can get. Wonder goals, tap-ins, solo goals, dribbling, passing, you name the attribute you want out of a striker, and it is a guarantee that Suarez possessed that. Suarez is the third top scorer in Barca’s rich history. And on top of that, he is also the second-highest assist maker of all time. In his prime, Luis was an absolute joy to watch. He is 34 now, and as a result, he is not the same player anymore and has slowed down a bit. But, nevertheless, he is still balling in La Liga with Atletico de Madrid.

6. Ladislao Kubala

281 Goals (357 Appearances)

His story is something straight out of a movie. In 1949 Kubala fled socialist Hungary in the back of a truck. In May 1949, he agreed to play for Torino but pulled out due to a family emergency, which in turn saved his life as the plane crashed on its way back from Lisbon, killing everyone inside it. Laszlo was the first ‘megastar’ that Barca had. And they needed that to combat against Real Madrid’s Alfredo di Stefano. He brought a magical time at the club. With him, the team won absolutely everything there was to win in 1951 season. He was an entertainer. He attracted crowds. When he played suddenly, the 60,000 seats weren’t enough. And, so they began the construction of the 93,000 seater Camp Nou. As a tribute to the great, there is Bronze statue erected outside the stadium.

5. Ronaldinho

110 Goals (250 Appearances)

Football became blessed when Ronaldinho started playing it. He always had a smile on his face. He is the greatest entertainer in the history of the game. The man with virtually zero haters across the globe. He was so good, he once received a standing ovation from the Bernabeu crowd. When Dinho was on the ball, you just had to sit back and enjoy the ride. The man that kickstarted the new Barca era. The biggest piece in the project. Ronaldinho has practically won everything there is to win in football. Scorer of some great goals, a genuine genius of the sport. There aren’t enough words to describe how mesmerizing Ronaldinho was. He won Barca their second Champions League. And he won a Ballon D’or in 2005, as a result cementing his legendary status in the sport. Ronaldinho ranks 5th on this list of Top 10 Barcelona players of all time.

4. Johan Cruyff

86 Goals (231 Appearances)

One of the greatest players of all time. Johan Cruyff put Barcelona on the world map. Football would never be the same after Johan Cruyff. Cruyff revolutionized modern football. The man that introduced ‘Total Football’, which would hone how football will be played for generations to come. To this day, Cruyff’s ideals are what governs the managerial aspect of the game. He is the one that made Pep Guardiola who he is today. Johan won three Ballon D’or throughout his stellar career.

3. Andres Iniesta

66 Goals (758 Appearances)

Andres Iniesta is one of the greatest midfielders of this generation. The magician was an absolute joy to watch on the ball. He glided on the pitch and went past players as it they weren’t there. And, he had perfected the weight of the pass. He was an absolute joy to watch on the ball. A big-game player if there ever was one. He scored in Spain’s victory against Netherlands in the final to give his country their first-ever world cup. He is currently playing in the Japanese league. Iniesta has a street named after him and a statue of his World Cup-winning goal in his hometown.

2. Xavi Hernandez

97 Goals (869 Appearances)

Xavi Hernandez read the game like no one else. He saw the pass before anyone else did. He and Iniesta formed the greatest midfield partnership of all time. The game ran through him. He was a master of the art of ‘scanning’ a pitch. Which meant knowing the positions of your players and the oppositions’ and where the space would be empty. The record appearance holder for the club. Xavi Hernandez was a brilliant football player and a genius by the definition of the word. The man won everything in a Barcelona shirt and also in a Spanish shirt. And he is currently managing Barca. Under his management, Barca are looking at a new dawn and, as a result, a brighter future for the club.

Barcelona greatest player of all time — Messi’s celebration after PSG comeback

1. Lionel Messi

672 Goals (778 Appearances)

No surprises, who is on the top of the list of the top 10 greatest Barcelona Players of All time: Lionel Andres Messi. The man who is widely considered as the Greatest Player of All Time. The magician is an absolute joy to watch. Messi is the record goal scorer for the club, for La Liga, for Argentina in El Clasico’s, etc. etc., etc. Covering Messi’s records would take up all week. The man is too good. Leo has won everything there is to win at the club with Barcelona. Two trebles with the club. And a record 7 Ballon D’ors And, he finally won the thing which eluded him the most in his career, an international trophy. As he won a Copa America with Argentina this year. Hence, cementing his place in the Argentinian history books as well. Due to the financial aspects of the game, he had to forcibly leave the club this season. It is going to be a very, very sad day when Lionel Messi announces his retirement from the beautiful game. So, enjoy him as long as you all can.

Also Read: Top 10 Most Expensive IPL Players of All Time

Tags Barcelona, Messi, Suarez, Xavi

Football (Premier League)

Top 10 El Clásico of All Time

Post author By Robert Jackson
Post date May 15, 2022
No Comments on Top 10 El Clásico of All Time

The greatest rivalry in the history of the beautiful game. Real Madrid vs F.C. Barcelona AKA The El Clasico. The rivalry of two of the biggest clubs in the history of football. Certainly, the biggest clubs in Spain. It is often the most anticipated and most viewed fixture in club football. Two clubs with the biggest of legacies and the biggest of legends the game has ever seen all over the pitch, makes it a spectacle you wouldn’t want to keep your eyes away from even for a second. The games can get a bit ugly, fights would break between the sets of players due to the intense rivalry. But, no matter what happens, this fixture comes with a full-fledge guarantee of entertainment.

Real Madrid is currently ahead with 100 Wins, followed closely by Barca at 97. While over the past three years, this fixture has dropped a bit in quality due to the departures of some greats in Cristiano Ronaldo, followed by Luis Suarez, Ramos, and then most recently Lionel Messi, it still is one of the most-watched games of club football season. Now, here is the list of our top 10 El Clasico’s of All Time.

10. Real Madrid 4-2 Barcelona (10 April 2005)

The win that helped Real secure the first La Liga title of their Galactico era. A star-studded Real Madrid with the likes of Ronaldo de Lima, Beckham, Raul, Owen, Zidane, and Roberto Carlos dominated a Barca that featured a young Andres Iniesta, Samuel Eto, Xavi, and the magician Ronaldinho. Zidane opened the scoring through a header in the 6th minute, and then Ronaldo scored to make it 2-0. It looked like there was no way back then Eto brought one back through a brilliant solo goal. Raul and Owen scored in the second half to put it past Barcelona’s reach. Ronaldinho stole the show with a magnificent Free Kick in the 73rd minute to make it 4-2. This classic and breathtaking Clasico makes 10th on this list of top 10 El Clasico’s of all time.

9. Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid (21 April 2012)

When Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona met Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid, everyone just knew they were in for a treat. Icons of the game on either side of the pitch. Ballers wherever you looked. That season Real Madrid under Jose was an unstoppable counter-attacking machine. That team hit an unprecedented 100 points in the league that season. Pep’s Barcelona consisting of Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Dani Alves, Busquets, and prime Lionel Messi facing Mourinho’s Real that had a strike force of Ozil, Benzema, Angel di Maria led by a Cristiano Ronaldo in his prime. The game promised to be a great spectacle, and boy, did it deliver. The game began with chances at both ends, with Khedira opening the scoring after kicking home a rebound. The game went on with both sets of players creating half-chances at both ends. Alexis Sanchez finally equalized for Barca with a scrappy goal sending the home crowd into ecstasy. Their joy was soon deflated when Cristiano Ronaldo slotted home a brilliant finish to an exquisite through ball by Mesut and hitting the home supporters with the famous ‘Calma’ celebration.

Ronaldo and Ozil — Ronaldo’s famous ‘Calma’ celebration

8. Barcelona 5-0 Real Madrid (29 November 2010)

The biggest Clasico win in Barca’s history. A scoreline that describes utter domination. One of the most unexpected games ever played in this famous fixture. When the line-ups were announced, the general consensus was that this game would also be a nail-biter, will be a classic. As it turned out, it was a classic, just not what everyone thought and certainly not what the Madrid fans would’ve hoped for. Although Messi didn’t score in that game, he was unplayable that game. He provided two assists for Catalans. Xavi opened the scoring, and then Pedro scored the second to end a 25-pass move. El Clasico wouldn’t be an El Clasico without a fight breaking down between the players. Ronaldo pushed their manager Pep, and that enraged the Barca side erupting a fight between the players. The second half was a total onslaught by Barca, they scored three in that half to put Real Madrid out of sight and out of mind. A night the Culers will never forget.

7. Barcelona 1-3 Real Madrid ( 14 August 2017)

Barcelona invited Real Madrid to Camp Nou for the Supercopa de Espana. The game began with chances at both ends, with the first half stayed level at 0-0. Five minutes into the second half, the UCL holders take the lead through a Pique own goal. Messi leveled the scoring in the 77th minute by slotting home a penalty given against Navas by a foul on Suarez. The score didn’t stay level for too long, though, when Cristiano Ronaldo scored a wonder goal, flooring Pique and curling it into the top corner in the 80th minute. He celebrated that by removing his shirt to enrage the home supporters. He then got a red card in the 83rd minute, making the match tougher for Real. But, Marco Asensio came in clutch by sending home a thunderous strike in the 90th minute to end the game 1-3 in the favour of Madrid.

Barca 1-3 Real — Ronaldo shirtless celebration

6. Real Madrid 2-1 Barcelona (16 April 2014)

Before the game, Barcelona were favorite to win the game due to the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, who was suffering from an injury. But Gareth Bale had other plans. Angel Di Maria opened the scoring at the end of a fiercely quick and an exquisite counterattack. The first half saw plenty of chances for either side, and Bale had himself a goal disallowed. Barcelona equalized through a Batra header in the second half. In the 85th minute, Gareth Bale switched on his engine and went on a run to slot home a brilliant solo goal and win Real Madrid the Copa Del Rey.

5. Real Madrid 0-2 Barcelona ( 27th April 2011)

A champions league semi-final first leg match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, there isn’t anything bigger that club football can promise you. Another Jose vs Pep classic encounter. Jose’s tactics to frustrate Pep didn’t work out for him on this occasion. Lionel Messi had different plans to those of Jose’s. Pepe got sent off in the 61st minute, making it a colossal task for the men in the royal white to keep a clean sheet. Messi opened the scoring in the 77th minute. But, his second goal is the one that is known throughout the world. Messi tore apart the Madrid defense skipping past 4 players to score his second. And, who can forget Peter Drury’s iconic commentary to it, “Away from two, three, four wonderful wonderful wonderful.” An aggregate advantage of 3-1 sent Barcelona in the finals.

4. Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid ( 7 October 2012)

If an example was to be given of a perfect Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo encounter, then this game would be the top contender. The two of the greatest ever and the greatest of our generation going head to head always resulted in a beautiful spectacle. Ronaldo opened the scoring by firing home a thunderbolt from his weak foot past Valdes. Messi equalized after Pepe miscued his clearance, and Messi fired home a simple finish. Messi scored a scintillating free kick in the second half to put Barca ahead. And not a long time after, Cristiano finishes his second to draw the game level through a Mesut assist. A pure exhibition of football.

The Goats — Messi and Ronaldo shaking hands

3. Barcelona 3-3 Real Madrid ( 10 March 2007)

The game that announced the arrival of the great Lionel Messi to the world. A game that had stars all over the pitch. But, the headlines were stolen by a 19-year-old from Argentina. Ruud Van Nistelrooy opened the scoring for Real, Messi sent home the equalizer soon, although. Nistelrooy slotted home his penalty to give the visitors the lead. Messi equalized it again to cancel out the pen. Ramos scored to give Real the lead again. When it looked like Real were gonna win this one, Messi popped up again and sent home a brilliant goal in the 92nd minute to send the crowd into ecstasy, and the game ended at an astonishing 3-3.

2. Real Madrid 2-3 Barcelona ( 23 April 2017)

Another game where Messi haunted the Bernabeu crowd. It was a pretty equal game until Casemiro tapped in an open goal to give Real the lead. Messi then scored as beautiful goal to level the game. Rakitic scored in the second half to give Barca the lead. But Rodriguez scored in the 85th minute to equalize it for Real, and they thought that was the end of it. But, Leo Messi had different plans. He sent home a brilliant finish through his magical left foot in the dying minutes of the game to give Barca the lead and then removing his jersey and showing it to the Bernabeu folk. One of the most iconic celebrations ever in an El Clasico.

1. Real Madrid 3-4 Barcelona ( 23 March 2014)

It was an easy choice for the number 1 pick. This game had everything: Red Cards, Penalties, Hattrick. Iniesta opened the scoring by a Messi through ball. Benzema headed home the equalizer to tie the game for a while. Benzema scored soon again to give Carlo Ancelotti’s men the lead. Messi popped up to score his first and tie the game. Ronaldo slotted home the penalty to put Real in front. Ramos then brought Neymar down in the box and got himself sent off. Messi slotted that pen past Casillas to level the game at 3-3. Iniesta won Barca another penalty, and the main man sent that pen in the net as well to win the game for the Catalans.

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Tags Barcelona, Messi, Real Madrid, Ronaldo, Xavi