Because the Champions League Spherical of 16 heats up, it’s a good time to look again at a few of the most spectacular particular person performances within the event’s historical past.
These standout moments haven’t solely wowed followers but additionally performed key roles of their groups’ successes.
1. Erling Haaland – Manchester Metropolis vs RB Leipzig (7-0), 2023
In March 2023, Erling Haaland scored 5 targets in a single match, serving to Manchester Metropolis crush RB Leipzig 7-0 and transfer into the quarter-finals. Haaland’s efficiency was so exceptional that his coach, Pep Guardiola, took him out of the sport to avoid wasting challenges for future matches.
2. Lionel Messi – FC Barcelona vs Bayer Leverkusen (7-1), 2012
Lionel Messi set a document on this quarter-final sport by scoring 5 targets. His unimaginable talent helped Barcelona win 7-1 in opposition to Bayer Leverkusen, making it an evening to recollect.
3. Luiz Adriano – Shakhtar Donetsk vs BATE Borisov (0-7), 2014
Earlier than Messi, Luiz Adriano was the document holder for many targets in a Champions League sport, scoring 5 in opposition to BATE Borisov in 2014. His 4 targets within the first half alone made this one of the vital environment friendly scoring performances within the historical past of the event.
4. Steven Gerrard – Liverpool vs AC Milan (3-3), 2005
Within the 2005 last, Liverpool was shedding 3-0 at halftime. Steven Gerrard, the staff captain, led an unimaginable comeback beginning along with his objective. His efforts helped tie the sport at 3-3, and Liverpool ultimately received on penalties.
5. Diego Milito – Inter Milan vs Bayern Munich (2-0), 2010
Diego Milito was the star of the 2010 last, scoring each targets in Inter Milan’s 2-0 win over Bayern Munich. His efficiency secured Inter’s first European Cup in 45 years.
6. Lionel Messi – Actual Madrid vs FC Barcelona (0-2), 2011
In a essential 2011 semi-final, Lionel Messi was the standout participant, scoring two late targets to defeat Actual Madrid 2-0. His second objective, the place he dodged a number of defenders, was significantly spectacular.
7. Robert Lewandowski – Borussia Dortmund vs Actual Madrid (4-1), 2013
Robert Lewandowski scored all 4 targets for Dortmund of their 4-1 win in opposition to Actual Madrid within the semi-finals. His efficiency was historic, making him the primary participant to attain 4 targets in a Champions League semi-final for the reason that Sixties.
