Julián Álvarez ended his 2024/25 season with a moment of magic. The Argentine forward scored a stunning free-kick goal in Atlético Madrid’s win over Real Betis, but more than the result, it was the how that stole the spotlight—drawing comparisons to Lionel Messi’s iconic strike against Liverpool in the Champions League.

From nearly the same position as that legendary night at the Camp Nou, Álvarez stepped up with composure, took three steps, and curled a left-footed shot into the top-left corner, leaving the Betis goalkeeper frozen.

There was no power—just flawless placement, technique, and a touch of artistry. A goal that felt more like a tribute than a fluke.

A Season to Build On

With this goal, Álvarez reached 15 goals in LaLiga during his first season at Atlético, after joining from Manchester City. He earned the trust of Diego Simeone, the cheers of the Wanda Metropolitano, and now the admiration of fans who saw in that free kick a nod to the best version of Messi.

Although Atlético Madrid didn’t fight for the title this year, Julián’s goal serves as a symbolic closing—and perhaps the beginning of his era in Madrid.

And with the 2024 Copa América just around the corner, Álvarez is heating up at the perfect time.