45 days to go…
We’re counting down to the FIFA World Cup 2026™ by showcasing a golazo from the global finals each day.
Lionel Messi
Argentina v IR Iran
Brazil 2014 | Group F
Estadio Mineirao, Belo Horizonte
“Iran played really well and proved they are a top team,” said Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella. “They did everything they could and made life hard for us.
“One thing they don’t have is Messi. He is a genius and fortunately he is Argentinian. Not even two goalkeepers could have stopped that shot. With Messi, anything is possible.”
Team Melli had been moments away from a 0-0 draw. Then they were punished for letting Messi, whom they had doubled up on throughout, alone with only one bodyguard. ‘The Atomic Flea’ duly jinked inside Reza Ghoochannejhad and, from outside the box, sent a spectacular strike inside Alireza Haghighi’s post.
Messi had bagged back-to-back winners. Argentina had reached the knockout phase with a game to spare.
Further reading
26 Superstars: Lionel Messi
Watch: Mesmerising Messi sizzles against the Swiss
Mini Messi lands in Barcelona
Watch every Messi World Cup goal
