La Liga: Messi hits goal 650 as Barcelona get revenge on Athletic | Football News – Times of India
BARCELONA: Lionel Messi scored his 650th goal for Barcelona whereas Antoine Griezmann struck the winner in a 2-1 residence success over Athletic Bilbao in La Liga on Sunday, avenging a defeat by the Basque aspect within the Spanish Super Cup last.
Messi curled in a shocking free kick after 20 minutes for his milestone goal on the identical day the membership pledged to sue Spanish newspaper El Mundo for publishing the complete particulars of the Argentine’s contract.
Ronald Koeman’s aspect recorded a fifth straight Liga win and moved above Real Madrid into second on goal distinction with 40 factors, 10 behind Atletico Madrid who’ve a recreation in hand.
Messi had missed a gilt-edged likelihood at the beginning when he fired straight at keeper Unai Simon and Barca spurned a number of extra alternatives to extend their lead earlier than halftime.
Athletic, who had gained their earlier 5 matches in all competitions in a flying begin below new coach Marcelino, did not get going however levelled within the forty ninth due to an personal goal.
Jordi Alba tried to stop Athletic’s Oscar de Marcos reaching a cross however as an alternative prodded into the Barca web.
The hosts struggled to reply however lastly restored their lead within the 74th when Griezmann, who had scored twice within the 3-2 Super Cup last defeat, arrived within the field to knock residence a cross from defender Oscar Mingueza.
Griezmann paid tribute to Messi after the sport when requested whether or not the Argentine, who tried to go away Barcelona within the shut season, was being pushed additional away from the membership.
“We’re all enjoying Messi, he’s a legend and we hope he can continue to help the club to win,” mentioned the Frenchman.
Athletic defender Inigo Martinez mentioned his aspect had the misfortune to face Messi when he appeared out to show some extent.
“We all know Messi’s quality. When he’s all fired up like he was today he scores goals like that and there’s nothing you can do about it,” he mentioned.
