Xavi Hernandez, commonly known as Xavi, is one of the greatest Spanish footballers who played as a central midfielder. Renowned for his exceptional vision, precise passing, and outstanding technical skills, he is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in football history.
Top 10 memorable performances of Xavi:
1. Spain vs. Italy, Euro 2008 Final:
Xavi played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2008 final victory against Italy, dominating the midfield and delivering the crucial assist for Fernando Torres’ winning goal, helping Spain secure their first major international title in 44 years.
2. Barcelona vs. Manchester United, Champions League Final 2011:
Xavi was instrumental in Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Manchester United in the 2011 UEFA Champions League final, dictating the game’s tempo and assisting Lionel Messi’s crucial second goal.
3. Barcelona vs. Real Madrid, La Liga 2010/11:
In one of the most iconic midfield performances in football history, Xavi orchestrated Barcelona’s 5-0 triumph over Real Madrid, completing an exceptional 97% of his passes and recording two assists.
4. Barcelona vs. Bayern Munich, Champions League Semi-Final 2015:
Although Barcelona lost the tie 5-3 on aggregate, Xavi delivered a midfield masterclass in the second leg, dictating play and scoring a stunning free-kick to secure a 3-2 victory on the night.
5. Spain vs. Germany, Euro 2008 Semi-Final:
Xavi delivered a standout performance in Spain’s 1-0 victory over Germany in the Euro 2008 semi-final, providing the assist for the decisive goal and dominating the midfield from start to finish.
6. Barcelona vs. Manchester United, Champions League Final 2009:
Xavi played a crucial role in Barcelona’s 2-0 triumph over Manchester United in the 2009 UEFA Champions League final, completing an outstanding 94% of his passes and assisting Lionel Messi’s second goal.
7. Barcelona vs. Real Madrid, La Liga 2011/12:
In another commanding display against Real Madrid, Xavi dictated the midfield and scored a spectacular goal, guiding Barcelona to a 3-1 victory.
8. Spain vs. Portugal, World Cup 2010 Round of 16:
Xavi delivered a masterful performance in Spain’s 1-0 win over Portugal in the 2010 World Cup Round of 16, completing an exceptional 96% of his passes and expertly controlling the game’s tempo.
9. Barcelona vs. Santos, Club World Cup Final 2011:
In the 2011 Club World Cup final, Xavi delivered a commanding performance, orchestrating Barcelona’s 4-0 demolition of Santos. He controlled the midfield with ease and provided two assists, helping secure the world title in style.
10. Spain vs. Italy, Euro 2012 Final:
Xavi played a key role in Spain's 4-0 victory over Italy in the final of Euro 2012. He controlled the midfield and provided the assist for Jordi Alba's opening goal, as Spain became the first team to win three consecutive major tournaments.
Xavi was a phenomenal midfielder who consistently delivered exceptional performances for both club and country. Renowned for his extraordinary vision, pinpoint passing, and superb technical ability, he remains etched in football history as one of the greatest midfielders of all time.
Also Read |
