Lionel Messi marked a historic milestone by scoring his 700th career goal on June 30, 2020,during Barcelona’s 2-2 La Liga draw against Atletico Madrid.
The Argentine superstar achieved the feat with a cheeky Panenka penalty, delicately chipping the ball past Atletico’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak, who dove the wrong way.
A Key Role in the Match
Messi’s impact went beyond his landmark goal. He played a part in Barcelona’s opening score when his corner kick deflected off Atletico’s Diego Costa for an own goal.
Despite taking a 2-1 lead with Messi’s penalty, Barcelona couldn’t secure the win.
Atletico equalized twice through penalties by Saul Niguez, leaving Barcelona second in La Liga, one point behind Real Madrid, who held a game in hand.
The 700-Goal Club
Messi’s 700th goal, his 630th in 724 appearances for Barcelona, placed him among football’s greatest scorers.
According to the sports card above, he joins an elite group including Josef Bican (805 goals), Romario (772), Pele (767), Ferenc Puskas (746), Gerd Muller (735), and Cristiano Ronaldo, who had recently hit 700 goals in October 2019 and added 26 more by July 2020.
Match Drama and Missed Chances
The game saw intense moments, including a missed penalty by Diego Costa, saved by Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen, only for it to be retaken due to the goalkeeper stepping off his line.
Saul Niguez converted the second attempt. Messi’s Panenka briefly restored Barcelona’s lead, but another penalty from Niguez ensured a draw, costing Barcelona crucial points in the 2020 title race.
Messi’s Legacy Grows
Scoring his 700th goal just 14 months after his 600th for Barcelona, Messi solidified his place among football’s all-time greats.
His creativity, precision, and flair, showcased in the Panenka, continue to captivate fans, even as Barcelona faced challenges in their pursuit of the La Liga crown.
