Sevilla FC – March 2012
Frustration is one thing in football. Total embarrassment is another story altogether, and that is what Lionel Messi’s talent often brings to an opposing club. Sevilla found themselves on the wrong side of this equation during the 2011-12 La Liga season.
Barcelona’s visit to the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan secured three points in a 2-0 victory, with Messi scoring the second goal that buried Los Nervionenses in the first half.
An exquisite passing combinations springs Messi towards goal, with Sevilla’s back-line approaching from each side. But he shifts to his left, puts the ball between the defender’s legs and chips the goalkeeper with a sublime effort.
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Even only in the 24th minute of a match, Messi managed to mentally eliminate the competition. Suddenly, confidence and positioning are lost for both the defence and the keeper. They are constantly concerned about their own moves, and a comeback is completely out of the question at that point.
Goalkeepers and defenders must be extremely careful and precise when facing Barcelona, as Lionel Messi can make a mistake pay very quickly. With Luis Suarez and Neymar by his side now, the MSN front-line is a frightening proposition for any team.