On the evening of 8/4 at Camp Nou, Alvarez scored a direct free-kick in the 45th minute, opening the scoring and significantly contributing to Atletico's 2-0 victory over Barca. This spectacular goal reminded spectators of a similar strike by Messi, Alvarez's Argentina national team colleague, during the first leg of the 2019 Champions League semi-final between Barca and Liverpool at the same venue.

After the match, Alvarez admitted that he viewed his senior teammate's masterpiece as a model to emulate. "I've watched Messi's goal against Liverpool many times. But today, when I took the shot, I wasn't entirely sure it would go into the right corner. Once you strike it, you realize. The day before, I didn't succeed even once in practice," the Atletico forward stated.

Julian Alvarez (number 19) takes a free-kick, opening the scoring in Atletico Madrid's 2-0 victory over Barca in the Champions League quarter-final first leg at Camp Nou on 8/4. Photo: AFP

Messi's free-kick goal against Liverpool in the 2019 Champions League. Screenshot

The victory at Camp Nou provides a significant advantage for Alvarez and his teammates. In the return leg at their home stadium, Metropolitano, on 14/4, they can afford to lose by one goal without risking their spot in the semi-finals.

If they advance, Atletico will face the winner of the Arsenal - Sporting tie (first leg 1-0). Should they continue their winning streak, Alvarez and his teammates could potentially meet PSG, Liverpool, Bayern, or Real in the final.

Despite the strong position, the forward, who won the 2023 Champions League with Man City, remains cautious when discussing their chances of progressing. He is wary of an opponent like Barca, a five-time champion known for its explosive attacking capabilities.

"The tie is not over yet," Alvarez added. "We know what kind of team they are. We have a score advantage, but we still need to maximize our home advantage in the return leg."

Messi and Alvarez celebrate a goal during the 2022 World Cup semi-final, Argentina 3-0 Croatia. Photo: Reuters

Alvarez joined Atletico from Man City in 2024 for 88 million USD. The 26-year-old forward has scored 47 goals in 102 appearances for the Spanish club, surpassing his record of 36 goals in 103 matches during his time at Man City. His performance has attracted interest from two major clubs, with Barca being one of them.

However, Atletico is not ready to sell their prized asset. President Enrique Cerezo warned that the price could increase significantly, deterring any potential suitors.

"If a player has many years left on their contract, tell me what could happen. In that case, you might think I am God. He will not leave until I agree," Cerezo stated.

Thanh Quy (according to ESPN)