Lionel Messi equals Cristiano Ronaldo goal record in Europe’s top five leagues as he scores first goal of 2023 on Paris Saint-Germain return

Lionel Messi wasted no time in getting his season with Paris Saint-Germain back under way in style as he scored on Wednesday night.

But the Argentine’s first goal for Les Parisiens since he lifted the World Cup in December has done much more than add to his tally for this season.

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It was clear to see Messi – who wore a shirt with the late Pele on as a tribute in the warm up – was in the mood to put on a show, pulling off some mesmerising first touches as he prepped for the game.

And with the Ligue 1 leaders already 1-0 up, Messi provided the finish for a well worked team goal he’d started in the 72nd minute.

After receiving the ball from the right of the box, the winger coolly slotted the ball past the Angers goalkeeper to double PSG’s lead and seal the 2-0 victory.

The goal marked Messi’s 13th of the season – two more than his tally last campaign already – and his 24th since signing from Barcelona in 2021.

But more importantly it’s brought the 35-year-old’s goal tally level with Ronaldo‘s record in Europe’s top five leagues.

Both stars are now on 696 goals, with Messi’s predominantly coming from his time at Barcelona – where he scored a whopping 672 goals – and now PSG.

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Meanwhile, Ronaldo achieved that number at Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.

The centre-forward scored 450 with Los Blancos, 145 during two spells at Old Trafford and 101 with Juve.

Ronaldo won’t be able to add to this tally either, given he’s now playing in Saudi Arabia.

Messi’s goal on Wednesday also marked his first of 2023, meaning this is the 19th year in a row he’s scored since he earnt a permanent spot in Barca’s senior team in 2005.

PSG’s win takes them six points clear at the top of Ligue 1.

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