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Back in 2013, the Champions League saw an unforgettable showdown between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Barcelona. The first leg in Paris ended in a 2-2 draw, setting the stage for a dramatic return leg at Camp Nou. With Lionel Messi nursing an injury, he started the match on the bench, and it seemed unlikely he would play.

As the match progressed, PSG took a 1-0 lead at Camp Nou, making Barcelona's situation dire. The late Tito Vilanova, Barcelona's coach, found himself in a tough spot with no apparent solutions. In a desperate move, he decided to bring on the legend himself, Messi, despite his injury.

Messi's impact was immediate and profound. The mere sight of him on the pitch forced the PSG players to retreat from their aggressive play. With remarkable skill and determination, Messi began to weave through the defense, eventually setting up an equalizer. His presence revitalized the team, and the Camp Nou erupted with chants of "Messi, Messi, Messi!"

Carlo Ancelotti, PSG’s coach at the time, made a memorable statement post-match:

"It is clear that the best player in the world is Messi and the second-best player in the world is the injured Messi. Everything was indicating that we would qualify tonight had it not been for his entry that changed the course of the match. You cannot say anything. This is the situation of all teams when they face Messi."

Ancelotti has also been quoted saying:

"To prepare the game for Messi is impossible. Messi is a fantastic player. If you speak to our players about the skills of Messi, the players will be afraid."

This match and Ancelotti's words highlight the fear and respect Messi instilled in even the most seasoned professionals. Prime Messi was a force of nature, capable of altering the course of any game, injured or not.

Do you think Messi's influence on the pitch is unmatched in football history? Share your thoughts!

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