35-year-old superstar Lionel Messi pulled off a first-time feat in Paris Saint-Germain’s Ligue 1 opener on Saturday, proving conclusively that age-defying acrobatics are still not way beyond him.
Of all the highlights Lionel Messi has accomplished over the years without seemingly having to bat an eyelid in doing so, the Paris Saint-German star managed to pull off an impressive first-time feat in PSG’s Ligue 1 opener against Clermont Foot.
After increasing his club’s lead to 4–0 with an immaculate goal in the 80th minute, Messi followed up his season-opening score in style after intercepting a well-placed pass from Leandro Paredes off his chest and with his back facing Clermont goalkeeper Mory Diaw, diminutive wizard wowed the Stade Gabriel-Montpied crowd and turned back the years with a masterful bicycle kick off his left foot.
The spectacular acrobatic highlight added a definite touch of class to the resounding finishing touch as defending Ligue 1 champions PSG secured a decisive 5–0 victory in new manager Christophe Galtier’s first league game in charge. Messi finished the contest with two goals and an assist.
PSG were totally reliant on Messi and Neymar, who scored the first goal and assisted the next three, as they began their season without the injured Kylian Mbappe. The French star forward was absent Saturday due to an adductor injury, after having also missed last week’s 4–0 win over Nantes that secured them the Champions Trophy due to suspension.
With over 700 career goals to his name, it’s always an undeniable treat to watch Messi continue to find ways to amaze, even at age 35. And, after enduring a challenging first season with PSG, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is already off to a brilliant start to begin the new campaign.