Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Matt Maltby

Fans go wild for Lionel Messi 'Panenka' free-kick - but it's not the first time he's done it

Lionel Messi added yet another stunning goal to his collection for Barcelona on Saturday - and his strike against Espanyol would have brought back memories for some fans.

The Argentina superstar also achieved another career milestone as Barca maintained their 10-point lead at the top of La Liga with a 2-0 derby win over Espanyol.

Messi's late double at the Nou Camp ensured he surpassed 40 goals in a season for the 10th successive year.

But it was his first goal, a chipped free-kick, that sent fans wild - with some hailing it as one of his best ever goals.

Lionel Messi scored a chipped free-kick on Saturday (AFP/Getty Images)

Sergio Aguero's Argentina career could be over after selection snub

However, those who have followed Barca over the years may remember Messi scoring a very similar goal in 2010.

The forward was the same distance out against Almeria nine years ago when he deftly chipped the ball over the wall and into the back of the next.

That Panenka free-kick was perhaps even better, given Saturday’s attempt was helped in by Espanyol defender Victor Sanchez, who failed to clear the ball off the line.

Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets, meanwhile, said he was not surprised by Messi's latest feat of brilliance after his memorable brace.

Messi scored this chipped free-kick during a 2-2 draw with Almeria back in 2010 (Getty Images)

Lionel Messi creates another sensational record with Barcelona star's Espanyol double

Messi's double kept his side in full control at the top of the Spanish league and ensured he surpassed 40 goals in a season again despite an ongoing pelvic injury.

Speaking to Spanish media, Busquets said: "His (Messi's) performances may be unusual from the outside, but they do not surprise us.

"What he does in training is more difficult in matches, but we are used to it."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.