Lionel Messi: A Match-Winner Even When He Doesn't Play Well

David Ramos/Getty Images

We'll start with the last goal—Messi got it, his 38th of the season.

Even on a day where the No. 10 had very little impact on Barcelona's game, and was off-form in general with his touch and final ball, he still managed to make himself the match-winner as he steered a shot beyond the keeper to put his side 2-1 ahead.

Messi made a few threatening runs in the first half which culminated in free kicks, but having taken three of them himself with no great result to show for it, he wound up winning the points for his side after the break.

A quick pass out wide left to Cristian Tello opened up space in the area to move into, and after receiving the return pass, Messi showed his usual composure and finishing ability to beat Beto.

He wasn't effective vs. Milan, and he had little impact for most of the game against Sevilla, but Messi has shown so often that he can win a game on his own in an instant. This won't be the last time it happens this season; don't bet against him on the next occasion against Milan. Or Madrid.