With Lionel Messi turning 34 this week, we throw it back to the time when the Barcelona superstar made many local fans' dreams come true by turning out on South African soil. Check it out!
To see Messi vs Sundowns, scroll through the gallery above
What's the story?
For football enthusiast around the world, the thought of Messi getting older becomes harder and harder to accept. The Argentine is easily regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time and was relentless in his pursuit in doing so.
The gifted footballer's magical ability made him win countless trophies over the years with his six Ballon d'Or honours being one of his most notable achievements.
Messi Is Coming
In 2010, fans in South Africa had the chance to see Messi in the flesh during the FIFA World Cup. At the time, Messi was 23 years old and had one Ballon d'Or to his name.
Fast forward eight years and Mzansi supporters began buzzing after it was announced that Barcelona would travel to South Africa in facing Mamelodi Sundowns in a friendly match as part of the Nelson Mandela Centenary celebrations.
The GOAT is Here
The FNB stadium was packed to the rafters as players such as world class talents such as Andres Iniesta, Luis Saurez and Ivan Rakitic turned out for the Catalan side.
While Downs may have lost the encounter, Messi's 15 minute cameo was more than enough for the fans in attendance. While warming up, the crowd increased the volume exponentially as one of the greatest ballers of all time was about to feature on local soil in what can be deemed as a rare occasion in South African football events.
To see Messi vs Sundowns, scroll through the gallery above
Have your say…
What is your favourite Messi moment?
