Antoine Griezmann Scores 'Messi-Like Chip Goal,' Helps Barcelona Keep Title Hopes Alive

Antoine Griezmann scored a stunning chip goal reminiscent of Lionel Messi’s shot against Real Betis, helping Barcelona keep its La Liga title hopes alive.

It seems Barcelona has left all the drama outside the pitch as the club thumped Villareal 4-1. Ahead of the match, reports claimed that tension between Barca players and the management had been growing. However, none of that manifested during the one-sided victory at the El Madrigal stadium.

Among the four Barcelona goals, it was Griezmann’s chip goal that stood out. The sensational goal brought back memories of Messi's chip against Real Betis earlier this year.

Just like Messi’s, Griezmann’s chip goal was a stunning shot from the edge of the box coming off a pass. What made it even more of a Messi chip déjà vu was that the goalkeeper also failed to reach the ball despite a tremendous stretch in an attempt to block the shot, Besoccer.com reported.

The assist was also magical as it was Messi who dished the ball out to Griezmann. The Argentine was headed into the box, luring opponents to the left when he suddenly backheeled the ball to Griezmann, who finished in style.

Prior to the thrilling performance, Griezmann was under-fire due to his consistently poor showing in recent games. However, Quique Setien decided to bring the Frenchman attacker back in the starting XI for the match against Villarreal.

Contrary to what some expected, Griezmann brilliantly delivered. The former Atletico star was active since the early going. And prior to scoring Barcelona’s third goal, Griezmann also played a big part in the club’s first goal.

Even the celebration after Griezmann’s goal was also a highlight of the match as the youngster is coming off a poor spell. He hasn’t been playing as often as he usually would, and his teammates showered him with hugs after he scored.

Aside from Griezmann, Luis Suarez and Ansu Fati also contributed in scoring as they collectively kept Barcelona's title hopes alive.

Despite the monumental win, Barcelona is still in the middle of controversies. Recent reports claimed that Messi has halted his contract renewal discussions and is likely to leave the club next year. Griezmann, on the other hand, has been linked to an array of suitors, including Premier League giants Arsenal.

Aside from the players, current Barca coach Setien is also being bombarded with criticism. Rumors have it that he will soon be replaced by Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez. However, recent reports stated that Hernandez has signed a new coaching contract with his current club, Al Sadd.