# King of Free-Kicks in Ligue 1: Lionel Messi's 5 Free-Kicks this Season

In the world of football, there is no player who has captured the imagination and awe of fans more than Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar has not only been one of the most prolific scorers in European football but also one of the best free-kick takers in the history of the sport.

This season, Messi has showcased his exceptional skills with the ball at his feet, particularly on free-kicks. Here are five of his most memorable free-kick performances in Ligue 1:

## 1. The Golden Goal

On March 26th, 2023, Messi delivered a stunning golden goal against Lille. From a set-piece corner, he took advantage of a weak defense to slot the ball past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for what many considered the most beautiful goal of the season.

## 2. The Penalty Shootout

During the UEFA Champions League group stage, Messi was instrumental in helping Barcelona secure a 4-1 victory over Atletico Madrid. In the penalty shootout, he stepped up and converted his second spot kick, securing the win for his team.

## 3. The Close Call

In a thrilling match against Paris Saint-Germain on April 7th, Messi had two close calls from free-kicks. He managed to deflect both attempts into the net, showcasing his incredible range and accuracy.

## 4. The World Cup Qualifier

At the FIFA World Cup qualifier, Messi scored another memorable free-kick against Montenegro. From a corner, he curled the ball into the top-left corner of the net, leaving the opposition reeling.

## 5. The Final Touch

As Barcelona prepared for their Champions League final against Real Madrid, Messi delivered a breathtaking free-kick that left the stands cheering. From a long-range position, he struck the ball with precision, sending it sailing into the upper-right corner of the net.

Lionel Messi's free-kick prowess has become synonymous with his overall excellence as a player. His ability to take control of the game from any angle, whether it be inside or outside the box, makes him the ultimate king of free-kicks in Ligue 1. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how he continues to dominate the discipline and cement his legacy as one of the greatest free-kickers in the history of the sport.