Messi’s Masterclass Puts Barcelona Star Ahead of Salah
In a performance that reminded the world why he’s considered football’s greatest, Lionel Messi netted his 41st club hat-trick in Barcelona’s dominant victory over Deportivo on Sunday. This historic treble not only secured Barça’s La Liga title with four games to spare but also propelled Messi past Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah in the race for the prestigious European Golden Shoe.
Messi now sits atop the leaderboard with 64 points (32 goals × 2), two clear of Salah, who failed to score in Liverpool’s goalless draw against Stoke. The Argentine maestro has now scored an astonishing 550 goals in 634 appearances for Barcelona—a testament to his enduring brilliance.
The Golden Shoe Battle: Who Can Catch Messi?
With just a handful of matches left in Europe’s top leagues, the Golden Shoe race is heating up. Here’s how the contenders stack up:
Key Contenders
- Lionel Messi (Barcelona): 32 goals (64 points) – 4 games remaining
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): 31 goals (62 points) – 2 games remaining
- Ciro Immobile (Lazio): 29 goals (58 points) – 3 games left
- Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich): 28 goals (56 points) – 2 games left
Salah, who has been in scintillating form this season, now faces an uphill battle. The Egyptian forward must deliver in Liverpool’s final two Premier League fixtures to overtake Messi. However, as Jw7 football analyst James Wilkinson notes:
“Messi has the advantage of more remaining games, including El Clásico. If he maintains his form, it’s hard to see anyone catching him.”
Historical Context
If Messi holds onto his lead, he will become the first player ever to win the European Golden Shoe five times, further cementing his legacy. Salah, meanwhile, could become the first Premier League player since Luis Suárez (2013/14) to claim the award outright.
What’s Next for the Golden Shoe Race?
Messi’s next challenge? A high-stakes El Clásico showdown against Real Madrid. A strong performance there could all but seal his Golden Shoe victory. Meanwhile, Salah must hope for a slip-up while maximizing his opportunities against Brighton and potentially in the Champions League final.
Final Predictions
- Messi’s Consistency: With four games left, he could extend his lead.
- Salah’s Uphill Task: Two games may not be enough unless he bags multiple goals.
- Dark Horse – Immobile: If Messi and Salah slow down, the Lazio striker could surprise.
Conclusion: Messi in Pole Position for Golden Shoe Glory
Lionel Messi’s latest masterclass has put him in the driver’s seat for yet another European Golden Shoe. While Salah remains within striking distance, the Argentine’s remaining fixtures give him the edge.
Will Messi make history with a fifth Golden Shoe, or can Salah pull off a late surge? Follow Jw7 for the latest updates and expert analysis on this thrilling race!
What do you think? Share your predictions in the comments below!
