New Delhi: Robert Lewandowski continues to prove why he is regarded as one of the greatest strikers of his generation, matching a historic Barcelona record set by Lionel Messi. In a dramatic 2-2 draw against Real Betis on Saturday, the Polish forward etched his name into the annals of the Catalan club’s history by becoming only the second player to score 16 goals in his first 16 La Liga appearances.
The 36-year-old striker’s goal came in classic Lewandowski style with a predatory finish after a precision-driven low cross from Jules Kounde. His instinctive touch to slot the ball into an empty net was the culmination of a fluid Barcelona move, briefly setting the tone for what could have been a winning night for Hansi Flick’s side. Unfortunately for Barcelona, their defensive lapses allowed Betis to snatch a last-gasp equalizer through Assane Diao.
LEWY BALL DOES IT AGAIN.#BetisBarça | #LaLigaHighlights pic.twitter.com/CpWfbvt5bc
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) December 7, 2024
Scoring brilliance
Lewandowski’s incredible start to the season has seen him firing on all cylinders as he leads not just in La Liga but across Europe. With 16 goals in just 17 league matches, he is currently the top scorer in Spain’s top flight and holds the same honor across Europe’s top five leagues.
This scoring feat puts him in rarefied company, equaling Lionel Messi’s 2018-19 start when the Argentine also netted 16 times in 16 games. Messi would go on to finish that season with 36 league goals and over 50 across all competitions, leading Barcelona to a La Liga title and the Champions League semi-finals.
Robert Lewandowski has become the FIRST La Liga player to score 16 goals in his first 16 league games since Lionel Messi in the 2018/19 season. 🇪🇸📈
𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 🥶 pic.twitter.com/LW4v71Zb8m
— Pubity Sport (@pubitysport) December 7, 2024
For Lewandowski, the road ahead is both challenging and promising. His tally of 23 goals in all competitions already highlights his importance to a Barcelona side navigating a post-Messi era. His knack for rising to the occasion is evident with standout performances such as his seven goals in five Champions League matches this season including a string of dominant La Liga displays in October where he scored seven goals in just three games.
Defying age at 36
At an age when most players begin to wind down, Lewandowski’s ability to deliver at the highest level is nothing short of extraordinary. Under Flick’s guidance, he has seamlessly adapted to Barcelona’s style, combining his signature efficiency in front of goal with intelligent movement that creates opportunities for teammates. The goal against Betis also set another record for the longest goal-scoring sequence in La Liga for Barcelona.
📌 Robert Lewandowski has scored against Real Betis after 27 uninterrupted passes, the longest sequence of a Barça goal in LaLiga since February 2021 (Trincão vs Alavés, 35 passes). 👀
[opta] pic.twitter.com/zMcsIGhUD8
— Barça Notes 🗒 𝕏 (@BarcaNotes) December 7, 2024
Saturday’s goal against Betis further emphasizes that while the striker may have celebrated his 36th birthday but his hunger and sharpness remain undiminished. Conversations are already swirling about his chances for another prestigious accolade—the Ballon d’Or for a potential crowning achievement for a player who has redefined consistency and excellence.
What next?
Next on the horizon for Barcelona is an intriguing midweek Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund, followed by a league fixture against Leganes. These games will be crucial for the Blaugrana as they seek to regain momentum in La Liga while maintaining their European aspirations.
As for Lewandowski, his relentless pursuit of goals ensures he will continue to be a pivotal figure in Barcelona’s campaign. Whether he surpasses Messi’s 2018-19 record remains to be seen but one thing is certain: the Polish marksman is cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever don the iconic Blaugrana jersey.
Robert Lewandowski matches Lionel Messi’s Barcelona record with a goal against Real Betis, continuing his impressive form and solidifying his legacy at 36. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
