11 moments of Messi magic that show why he's the best footballer in the world

The Argentinean striker Lionel Messi is loved by almost everyone in the world of football, such is his astonishing skill, game-winning abilities and general love for the game. Here are a few of his best moments that illustrate why he's the best player in world football – equal with Cristiano Ronaldo.

1) Those goals – like this cracker into the top corner...

2) The assists – such as this fine through-ball to Iniesta...

3) The skills – close ball control followed by an incisive pass...

4) His exquisite touch that makes him so hard to dispossess...

5) His range of passing, with assist after assist...

6) Winning matches with shots like this...

7) Winning hearts...

8) Just winning… with Barcelona or Argentina. Favourites for the Champions League?

9) Heck, have another goal – a swerving free-kick this time...

10) And more Messi magic: see ya later, Nani...

11) World player of the y… wait a second… who's this who running into the ring with a steel chair in his hand?! Why it's…

Is Messi the best player in the world, Cristiano?