Goals That Changed History: Messi’s Legendary Dribble Against Getafe in 2007

On April 18, 2007, a 19-year-old Lionel Messi etched his name into history by replicating Maradona’s “Goal of the Century.” His solo run in the Copa del Rey semifinal against Getafe became a symbol of genius, bridging two football eras.

Context

In the Copa del Rey semifinal, Barcelona faced Getafe. Messi, receiving the ball near the halfway line (just like Maradona in 1986), began a run that redefined his career.

How It Happened

In 12 seconds, Messi dribbled past four players, including the goalkeeper, using sharp turns and a low center of gravity. The ball, chipped over the collapsing keeper, hit the net like an echo of Maradona’s iconic goal against England.

• The press hailed it as “divine,” with Marcaawarding 4 stars instead of its usual 3.
• Thierry Henry: “This made us rethink what’s possible in football.”

Legacy

1. Fans voted it Barcelona’s greatest goal everin 2019.
2. It inspired a generation to view dribbling as art.
3. Messi proved: geniuses don’t repeat history—they rewrite it.
   This goal is a bridge between past and future. As Messi said: “I was just looking for a path to the goal… and found my way into legend.”

P.S. The match footage still gives goosebumps.