London, May 29 (AFP) Lionel Messi cemented his status as the greatest player of his generation as two moments of magic from the Argentine maestro inspired Barcelona to Champions League glory.
Messi arrived at Wembley yesterday widely regarded as the sport's preeminent force but the likes of Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester United's Wayne Rooney also had their claims to be the world's best.
Those arguments will now be forgotten as Messi produced a second match-winning display in a Champions League final against United in the space of just three years.
Back in 2009, Messi announced his arrival as a true great with a headed goal in Barca's 2-0 victory over United in Rome.
This time he did his damage with a sweet strike to restore Barca's lead early in second half before a superb solo run provided the impetus for David Villa's clinching third goal.