LIONEL MESSI REMAINS a 699-goal player, for now, after Ivan Rakitic grabbed the only goal in Barcelona’s win over Athletic Bilbao this evening.
The Argentine of course had a part to play in the decisive moment, uncharacteristically mis-controlling a ball at the edge of the box that rolled through for the Croat to slot home his first goal of the season with 71 minutes on the clock.
With 10 minutes remaining, Messi almost forced his way to the landmark goal. The 32-year-old drifted from the right flank inside and flashed a shot narrowly wide of the far post. Aside from two free-kicks driven into the wall, Messi went close again on 87 minutes, curling wide from outside the area after Ansu Fati engineered the chance.
The win leaves the Blaugrana three points ahead of Real Madrid, who host Mallorca tomorrow.
What an absolute legend who won it all as a sprinter. If anyone hasn’t seen the documentary Never Enough, take a look. Very insightful into what a brutal sport cycling is, and his struggles with depression.
@Kevin Dillon: yes it also shows how much of an assh0le the man is. Didn’t have many friends in the peloton in his career
@Ellis Dewald: well if that’s what you got from that documentary I feel sorry for you. Just heard Hincapie on a podcast and he was saying how he was not just a great cyclist, but a great person, and was well respected in the peleton. Should I believe you or George Hincapie?
@Kevin Dillon: well if you want to believe a man who lied for his whole career about doping and biging up his best mates lance and Johan Bruyneel you do that Kevin
Genuinely world class performer over a long pro career. Very open and honest chap. Long and happy retirement.
@Kiersn OConnor: Amazing rider but to be honest always thought he was a pr*ck. Pog has shown how to win with style and grace and that it doesn’t have to be win at all costs.
Good riddance.
@Barry Baz: Good morning