Introduction: A Night Etched in Football History
Messi’s Impact in Barcelona’s 6-1 UCL Comeback (2017). The 2017 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second-leg clash between Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) remains one of the most iconic matches in football history. Dubbed “La Remontada” (“The Comeback”), Barcelona overcame a seemingly insurmountable 4-0 deficit from the first leg to triumph 6-1 at Camp Nou, advancing to the quarterfinals. Central to this dramatic turnaround was Lionel Messi, whose leadership and skill drove the team to achieve the impossible.
The Context: Barcelona’s Steep Climb After First-Leg Defeat
When PSG defeated Barcelona 4-0 in the first leg in Paris, many wrote off Barcelona’s chances of making it to the quarterfinals. Unai Emery’s PSG had displayed tactical discipline, lethal finishing, and defensive solidity, leaving Barcelona with an uphill battle. Critics speculated whether even a team of Barcelona’s caliber, led by a prime Lionel Messi, could muster the comeback of a lifetime.
Why the 4-0 Deficit Felt Insurmountable
- No team had ever overturned a four-goal deficit in the Champions League knockout stages before.
- PSG had one of the most formidable squads in Europe, featuring players like Edinson Cavani, Marco Verratti, and Angel Di Maria.
- Barcelona faced psychological and physical challenges, with doubts lingering over their ability to deliver under pressure.
The Build-Up to the Historic Night
Preparation and Strategy
Luis Enrique, Barcelona’s coach at the time, acknowledged the daunting challenge but infused confidence in his squad. Tactical adjustments, including a high press and quick transitions, were designed to unsettle PSG. Lionel Messi, Barcelona’s talisman, took on a central role in orchestrating the attack. Messi’s Impact in Barcelona’s 6-1 UCL Comeback (2017).
Messi’s Leadership in the Dressing Room
Before the match, Messi was reportedly a calming presence in the locker room. He motivated his teammates by reiterating that Barcelona’s history of resilience and their hunger to create history should be their driving force.
The Opening Salvo: Setting the Tone for the Comeback
Luis Suárez’s Early Goal (3rd Minute)
Barcelona wasted no time, with Luis Suárez scoring a looping header within the first three minutes. This early goal sent a shockwave through the PSG camp and ignited hope among the Barcelona faithful. Messi’s movement of the ball played a pivotal role in creating space for Suárez.
Relentless Pressure and an Own Goal (40th Minute)
As Barcelona pressed aggressively, PSG began to falter under pressure. An own goal by Layvin Kurzawa doubled Barcelona’s lead, further fueling the comeback dream. Messi’s relentless energy and pressing created the chaos that led to Kurzawa’s mistake.
Messi’s Moment of Magic: The Penalty That Changed Everything
The Crucial Third Goal (50th Minute)
Early in the second half, Barcelona earned a penalty after Neymar was fouled in the box. The responsibility fell to Messi, who confidently blasted the ball into the top corner. His celebration was a rallying cry, signaling that the impossible was now within reach. Messi’s Impact in Barcelona’s 6-1 UCL Comeback (2017).
- Precision and Composure: Messi’s penalty was clinical, exuding the calmness of a seasoned maestro.
- Psychological Impact: PSG, now leading only 4-3 on aggregate, started showing signs of panic and nervousness.
The Setback: Cavani’s Goal Threatens to Derail the Dream
In the 62nd minute, Edinson Cavani scored for PSG, seemingly putting the tie out of reach once again. Barcelona now needed three more goals in less than 30 minutes. The Camp Nou fell silent, but Messi remained composed, urging his teammates to keep fighting.
Messi’s Role in Maintaining Morale
Even after Cavani’s goal, Messi’s leadership shone through. He dictated the tempo, created spaces, and orchestrated attacks, refusing to let the team lose hope. His body language radiated confidence, which proved infectious.
Neymar’s Brilliance: The Comeback Gains Momentum
The Stunning Free-Kick (88th Minute)
Neymar curled in a sensational free-kick to make it 4-5 on aggregate. Messi, standing near the wall, was visibly vocal in encouraging Neymar before the shot.
The Penalty Drama (90+1 Minute)
Shortly afterward, Neymar won a penalty, which he converted to bring the aggregate score to 5-5. Messi’s decisive pass earlier in the buildup phase showcased his vision and precision.
Sergi Roberto’s Last-Minute Winner: A Historic Finale
In the dying seconds of the game, Sergi Roberto latched onto Neymar’s floated pass and scored the decisive sixth goal. Messi’s role in dragging PSG defenders out of position was critical in creating the space for Roberto’s run.
Pandemonium at Camp Nou
- Fans erupted in celebration, and Messi sprinted to join his teammates in a euphoric pile-on.
- The 6-1 victory marked the greatest comeback in Champions League history, and Messi’s contributions were pivotal in every sense.
Messi’s Overall Influence on ‘La Remontada’
Leadership Beyond Goals
Although Messi scored only once during the game, his leadership and ability to inspire those around him made a difference.
- Playmaker Role: Messi created numerous chances, including the pre-assist for Neymar’s free-kick.
- Mental Toughness: He led by example, maintaining composure and focus even during the most challenging moments.
The Legacy of the 6-1 Comeback
Redefining the Champions League
It became a symbol of football’s unpredictability and magic. It showcased why Lionel Messi is regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
Impact on PSG
The defeat left lasting scars on PSG, leading to significant changes within the club in subsequent years, including the signing of Neymar from Barcelona.
Conclusion: A Night That Cemented Messi’s Greatness
Barcelona’s 6-1 victory over PSG in 2017 is more than just a match; it’s a story of belief, resilience, and teamwork. At the heart of this historic night was Lionel Messi, who not only contributed with his skill but also demonstrated unparalleled leadership. His influence turned the seemingly impossible into reality, etching this night into football folklore forever.
FAQs
- How did Messi contribute to the 6-1 comeback?
He scored a penalty, created chances, and provided leadership throughout the match. - What was the aggregate score after the comeback?
Barcelona won 6-5 on aggregate. - Who scored the decisive goal for Barcelona?
Sergi Roberto scored the final goal in the 95th minute. - Why is the match called ‘La Remontada’?
“La Remontada” means “The Comeback” in Spanish, symbolizing Barcelona’s dramatic turnaround. - What was PSG’s first-leg advantage?
PSG had a 4-0 lead from the first leg.
