Of all the highlights Lionel Messi has amassed over the years, the Paris Saint-German star managed to put in an impressive first performance in PSG’s Ligue 1 opener against Clermont Foot.
After extending his club’s lead to 4-0 with a goal in the 80th minute, Messi followed his season-opening score in style after a well-placed pass from Leandro Paredes off his chest. Then, with his back to Clermont goalkeeper Mory Diaw, Messi stunned the Stade Gabriel-Montpied crowd with a masterful overhead kick of his left foot.
The acrobatic highlight put a resounding finishing touch to the game as defending Ligue 1 champions PSG took a 5-0 win in the first league game from new manager Christophe Galtier in charge. Messi finished the game with two goals and an assist.
Scroll to continue
PSG relied heavily on Messi and Neymar, who scored the first goal and assisted the next three, as they started their season without the injured Kylian Mbappe. The star striker was absent on Saturday due to an adductor injury and missed last week’s 4-0 win over Nantes to win the Champions Trophy due to suspension.
With over 700 goals to his name, it is always a joy to watch Messi continue to amaze at the age of 35. And after a challenging first season at PSG, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is already off to a perfect start to kick off the new campaign.
More Football Coverage: