Fan Footage of Messi’s Assist Against Netherlands Goes Viral

• Lionel Messi was on top of his game during Argentina's quarter-final against the Netherlands
• The 2021 Ballon d'Or winner's assist was captured by a fan and was breathtaking on its own
• The South Americans defeated the Europeans on penalties to reach the World Cup semi-finals

Incredible fan footage of Lionel Messi's wonder assist against the Netherlands has been shared on social media.

Messi’s dazzling display saw him net one goal and provide an assist, as the Argentina defeated the Dutch on penalties to qualify for the semi-finals of the World Cup.

The 35-year-old scored his fourth goal in the tournament from the spot in the 73rd minute, after Denzel Dumfries fouled Marcos Acuna in the penalty area.

But it was his contribution to the opening strike which really stole the headlines, with an incredible no-look pass to Nahuel Molina, which took out four defenders.

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Out of nowhere, the veteran striker pulled off the ball - which went through Nathan Ake’s legs - into the path of Molina who made no mistake from the inch-perfect pass.

Now fan footage from the stands, showing how quickly Messi runs and provides the assist, gives the effort another layer of complexity.

A video posted on Twitter, spotted by Sports Brief, shows how ridiculously swiftly the star sliced through Nathan Ake before making the pass.

Messi’s celebration was Barcelona inspired

Much has been said about Messi's celebrations and antics, during the heated World Cup quarter-final match between Argentina and the Netherlands.

The South Americans had the last laugh as they progressed on post-match penalties, with the PSG star seen celebrating in front of the Dutch technical bench with a style made famous by Juan Román Riquelme.

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Messi cupped his ears after he had scored a penalty to make it 2-0, in full sight of opposition coach Louis Van Gaal.

Lionel Messi v Luka Modric

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Luka Modric and Messi return to the spotlight, in an effort to win the lone trophy still missing from their illustrious careers.

Both men will captain their respective national teams, as Argentina takes on Croatia in the first semi-final of the 2022 FIFA World Cup at the Lusail Stadium.

The two footballing greats face off for one last attempt at Mundial glory, in what could well be their last outings for their respective nations.