The book is closed for the best goal of the season after Leo Messi's brilliant effort in the semi final of the cup against Getafe. The Argentinian teenager picked up the ball in his own half and left five defenders and the keeper for dead before scoring. It was reminiscent of Maradona's goal against England in the World Cup twenty years ago, and the local papers were unanimous in their headlines, "the king is dead (well, he is feeling a bit poorly at least), long live the new MESSIah"!

Messi set up Xavi and scored a second himself, and strikes from Gudjohnsen and Eto'o wrapped things up despite a goal and an assist from Güiza. The high scoring continued to the next day, Sevilla beating Depor 0-3 with goals from Kanouté, Navas and Luis Fabiano to set up a possible repeat of the European Super Cup final, which (for those of us who can remember that far back) the Andalusians won 3-0.

If Messi's was a clear candidate for best individualist goal of the season, Van Nistelrooy replied with what could be the best team goal at the weekend. The Dutch striker gave Real Madrid the lead against Valencia with a spectacular volley after a move involving eight more of his team mates, and although Morientes equalised, Ramos headed the winner a few minutes later. Luis Fabiano was on target for Sevilla again later on against Athletic, and there were goals too for Zigic at Recre, and for Tamudo, who converted a controversial last minute penalty against Betis. (23.04.07)