# Messi's Tackles at Paris Saint-Germain: A Closer Look
Lionel Messi has been one of the most dominant footballers in history, known for his incredible dribbling skills and ability to create goals from anywhere on the pitch. However, his defensive prowess is often overlooked, but it is just as crucial for a successful team. At Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Messi has shown that he can be a formidable defender when required.
## Introduction
Lionel Messi's journey at PSG began in 2011 when he joined the club after leaving Barcelona. Since then, he has become a cornerstone of the club's defense, contributing significantly to their success. His tackling abilities have improved over time, and he now consistently makes tackles that are both physical and intelligent.
## Physical Strength
One of Messi's standout attributes is his physical strength. He is a towering figure on the pitch, standing at 6 feet 7 inches tall and weighing approximately 245 pounds. This size gives him a significant advantage in aerial duels and allows him to dominate the midfield and attack lines.
## Intelligent Tackling
In addition to his physical presence, Messi also possesses excellent tactical intelligence. He knows exactly where to position himself on the field and how to read his opponents' movements. When he makes a tackle, it is usually well-placed and designed to disrupt the opponent's play.
## Specific Examples
One notable example of Messi's tackling abilities came during the 2019-2020 season against Real Madrid. In a crucial match, Messi made several crucial tackles to prevent Real Madrid from scoring. One particularly impressive tackle was when he intercepted a pass from Cristiano Ronaldo and sent it flying into the stands.
Another example occurred during the 2021 Champions League final against Liverpool. Messi made a series of crucial tackles to keep Liverpool off the scoreboard, including a diving header save and a clever block of Mohamed Salah's shot.
## Conclusion
Lionel Messi's tackling abilities at PSG are a testament to his exceptional skillset and tactical acumen. While his primary role is as a forward, his defensive contributions have been instrumental in helping PSG achieve success. As he continues to evolve as a player, his tackling abilities will undoubtedly remain a key part of his game.