Verratti Recalls Messi's Impact Against PSG
Marco Verratti reflects on Lionel Messi's unforgettable entrance during the 2012-2013 Champions League quarter-finals that turned the tide in Barcelona's favor.
Marco Verratti, the talented Italian midfielder, recently shared a vivid memory of Lionel Messi that has stayed with him throughout his career. The moment took place during the 2012-2013 UEFA Champions League quarter-finals when Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) faced Barcelona. Messi's game-changing presence ultimately sealed Barcelona’s progression to the semi-finals, leaving a lasting impression on Verratti.
PSG entered the second leg at Camp Nou after a hard-fought 2-2 draw in Paris. With the away goals rule in play, a high-scoring draw or win was PSG’s only path to advance. However, Messi started the match on the bench due to an injury, giving PSG a glimmer of hope. 'We thought we had a real chance,' Verratti said in a recent interview, 'but everything changed when Messi began warming up.'
Despite PSG taking the lead through a stunning strike from Javier Pastore, Messi’s introduction in the second half turned the game on its head. His visionary playmaking led to Pedro Rodríguez scoring the equalizer, a critical goal that allowed Barcelona to advance on away goals. 'When Messi came on, the energy of the game shifted,' Verratti recalled. 'I remember thinking, This man will destroy us, and he did.'
After the match, Verratti recounted a conversation with teammate Zlatan Ibrahimović, where they both marveled at Messi’s effortless brilliance. 'Messi is the best,' Ibrahimović told Verratti. 'Ask the defenders, not the forwards, if you want proof.'
Verratti highlighted how Messi’s mere presence on the pitch influenced both teams. 'He didn’t need to score that day; his play alone was enough to dismantle our plans,' Verratti said. The story underscores Messi's unique ability to change the dynamics of high-stakes matches and the respect he commands from players across the football world.
This iconic moment in football history remains a testament to Messi’s enduring impact on the sport. For Verratti, it serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by one of the greatest players to ever grace the pitch.
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