Lionel Messi’s 2012/13 season was arguably one of the greatest individual performances in football history. The Argentine maestro scored a staggering 91 goals across all competitions for Barcelona, breaking Gerd Müller’s long-standing record for most goals scored in a calendar year. Let’s delve deeper into Messi’s goal-scoring exploits against different teams during that remarkable campaign.   

La Liga Dominance

Messi’s dominance in La Liga during the 2012/13 season was unparalleled. He scored against almost every team in the league, showcasing his incredible versatility and finishing ability. Some of his most memorable performances included:

Real Madrid (2 goals): In the iconic El Clasico matches, Messi netted crucial goals that helped Barcelona maintain their lead at the top of the table. His ability to score against their arch-rivals solidified his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

Valencia (1 goal): Messi’s solitary goal against Valencia was a testament to his clinical finishing. He often found himself in the right place at the right time, capitalizing on loose balls and defensive errors.

Athletic Bilbao (2 goals): The Basque side proved to be a tough opponent for Barcelona, but Messi’s brilliance shone through. He scored two well-taken goals that helped Barcelona secure a comfortable victory.

Real Sociedad (3 goals): Messi’s hat-trick against Real Sociedad was a masterclass in attacking football. He dribbled past defenders with ease, created scoring opportunities for his teammates, and finished clinically when presented with the chance.

Champions League Brilliance

Messi’s goal-scoring prowess extended to the UEFA Champions League, where he led Barcelona to the final. Some of his standout performances in the competition included:

AC Milan (2 goals): In the round of 16, Messi scored two crucial goals against AC Milan, helping Barcelona overturn a first-leg deficit and progress to the next round.

Paris Saint-Germain (2 goals): Messi’s two goals against PSG in the quarter-finals were instrumental in Barcelona’s victory. He showcased his ability to score from distance and with his weaker foot.

Bayern Munich (2 goals): Despite Barcelona’s eventual defeat to Bayern Munich in the semi-finals, Messi scored two goals in the second leg. His performance in that match was a testament to his incredible talent and determination.

Copa del Rey Success

Messi also contributed significantly to Barcelona’s Copa del Rey triumph in 2012/13. He scored important goals in the knockout stages, helping the team reach the final, where they defeated Athletic Bilbao.   

A Record-Breaking Year

Messi’s 91 goals in 2012/13 shattered Gerd Müller’s long-standing record of 85 goals in a calendar year. He scored goals from all angles, with both feet, and with his head. He was unmatched in his ability to generate opportunities for both himself and his teammates.

Legacy

Messi’s 2012/13 season will be remembered as one of the greatest individual performances in football history. His goal-scoring exploits against various teams showcased his incredible talent, skill, and determination. He will continue to be an inspiration to young footballers around the world for many years to come.

Beyond the Numbers

While Messi’s goal-scoring record is impressive, it’s important to note that his impact on the game goes beyond mere statistics. His ability to create space, dribble past defenders, and deliver accurate passes made him an indispensable player for Barcelona. He was the heart and soul of the team, and his absence was felt whenever he was not on the pitch.

The Art of Scoring

Clinical Finishing: Messi was a master of the art of finishing. He could score from any angle, with either foot, or even with his head. His ability to anticipate the goalkeeper’s movements and place the ball precisely was unmatched.   

Dazzling Dribbling: His mesmerizing dribbling skills allowed him to bypass multiple defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His ability to change direction at lightning speed and leave defenders in his wake was a sight to behold.   

Dead-Ball Specialist: Messi’s free-kick taking was legendary. His ability to bend the ball with precision and power made him a threat from anywhere within range.   

Poacher’s Instinct: Messi had an uncanny ability to be in the right place at the right time. He could pounce on loose balls, capitalize on defensive errors, and score goals from seemingly impossible angles.

Tactical Mastery

False Nine Role: Messi was often deployed as a false nine, dropping deep to receive the ball and orchestrating attacks. This role allowed him to dictate the tempo of the game and create chances for his teammates.   

Interchangeable Positions: He was equally comfortable playing on the wings or as a central attacking midfielder. This versatility made it difficult for opponents to mark him effectively.

FAQs

How many goals did Messi score in 2012/13?

Messi scored a record-breaking 91 goals in 2012/13.   

Which team did Messi score the most goals against in 2012/13?

Messi scored the most goals against Real Madrid and Levante, with 5 goals each.

Did Messi score a hat-trick in 2012/13?

Yes, Messi scored several hat-tricks throughout the 2012/13 season, including one against Real Sociedad in La Liga.

What was Messi’s role in Barcelona’s success in 2012/13?

Messi was the driving force behind Barcelona’s success in 2012/13. His goals, assists, and overall playmaking abilities were crucial in helping the team win multiple trophies.

How did Messi’s 2012/13 season compare to other great seasons in football history?

Messi’s 2012/13 season is often compared to Pelé’s 1958 World Cup and Diego Maradona’s 1986 World Cup. It is considered one of the greatest individual performances in the history of the sport.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi’s 2012/13 season was a testament to his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to the game. His ability to score goals against any team, at any time, made him a force to be reckoned with. His legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is secure, and his 2012/13 season will be remembered for generations to come.

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