In an electrifying moment that had fans on the edge of their seats, Arda Güler nearly replicated one of the most iconic goals in football history — Lionel Messi’s unforgettable solo effort against Getafe in 2007. While the Turkish prodigy didn’t quite finish the job, the brilliance of his attempt suggests that Güler, like Messi, is a player with the potential to carve out his own legendary moments.
A Moment That Echoed Messi’s Magic
It was a match that seemed destined for a piece of history when Güler, at the tender age of 19, found himself in a position that mirrored Messi’s famous solo run. With the ball at his feet, the Real Madrid youngster weaved past defenders with an effortless combination of skill, speed, and balance, much like Messi did during that unforgettable run in 2007.
For anyone who remembers Messi’s strike against Getafe — a goal that was widely compared to Maradona’s “Goal of the Century” — the comparison was almost too perfect. Messi picked up the ball in his own half, glided past a series of Getafe defenders, and slotted it home with a calmness that belied the pressure of the situation. It became one of the most iconic goals ever scored in a Barcelona shirt, and a defining moment of Messi’s career.
The Near-Replica: Güler’s Solo Run
Güler’s attempt was nothing short of mesmerizing. In a similar fashion to Messi, the young attacker received the ball in midfield and took on a sea of opposition players. With his deft first touch and exceptional dribbling skills, he glided past defenders, leaving them scrambling to stop him.
As he closed in on the goal, it seemed as though Güler was destined to complete the move with a calm finish. But in the final moments, as the ball got caught under his feet or the keeper made an important save, the chance slipped away. Still, the fact that he came so close to scoring a goal of such magnitude only further highlights the immense talent he possesses.
A New Generation, A New Legend?
While Messi’s goal against Getafe will forever be etched in football lore, Arda Güler’s near-miss serves as a reminder that the next generation of footballing talent is eager to write their own chapters in history. The Turkish international has already shown glimpses of his immense potential, with a playing style reminiscent of Messi’s creativity and flair.
With his low center of gravity, exceptional dribbling ability, and ice-cold vision, Güler is a player who thrives in tight spaces and relishes one-on-one situations — qualities that make him a natural heir to Messi’s style of play. If his near-miss against Getafe is anything to go by, it’s clear that we may see many more spectacular moments from the young star as he continues to develop.
A Legacy in the Making?
While it’s too early to draw direct comparisons between Messi and Güler, the Turkish wonderkid certainly has the tools to make a similar impact in world football. His potential is undeniable, and it’s only a matter of time before he starts scoring goals that will rival the best ever seen on the pitch.
Whether or not Güler will ever score a goal as legendary as Messi’s against Getafe remains to be seen, but if this near-miss is any indication, we may be witnessing the birth of a new footballing legend.
