# Lionel Messi vs. Haaland: A Comparison of Passing Data Between Borussia Dortmund

## Introduction

Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland both spent significant periods at Borussia Dortmund, leaving lasting impressions on the club. While their playing styles and career trajectories differ, their contributions to the team’s success and their unique passing abilities set them apart. This article compares their passing data during their time at Dortmund, highlighting their strengths and how they complemented each other on the field.

## Messi’s Role and Passing Stats

Lionel Messi arrived at Borussia Dortmund in 2010, quickly becoming the team’s playmaker and a fan favorite. His ability to dictate play from midfield and deliver precise passes was a cornerstone of Dortmund’s attacking strategy. Messi’s passing stats during his time at Dortmund reveal a master of the game. He consistently completed over 90% of his passes, showcasing his pinpoint accuracy. Messi’s passes were not just about the numbers; they were about creating opportunities. His ability to thread passes through tight defenses led to numerous assists, including the famous cross that set up Kevin Gottfried for a goal in the 2011 Champions League final. Messi’s vision and creativity allowed him to see passes others couldn’t, making him a key asset in Dortmund’s dynamic attack.

## Haaland’s Role and Passing Stats

Erling Haaland joined Borussia Dortmund in 2017, bringing a different dynamic to the team. As a target man, Haaland’s role was to hold up the ball, link play, and create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His passing data during his time at Dortmund showed a player who excelled in the final third. Haaland’s pass completion rate was still impressive,Tennis News Flash around 85%, but his passes were more about holding the ball up and creating chances for others. Haaland’s ability to bring the ball down and deliver precise crosses into the box made him a threat. His long-range passes and pinpoint accuracy were key to creating scoring opportunities, particularly for players like Marco Reus and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Haaland’s physicality and presence also made him a focal point for Dortmund’s attacks, drawing defenders in and creating space for his teammates.

## Their Impact on Dortmund

Both Messi and Haaland had a profound impact on Borussia Dortmund during their time at the club. Messi’s creative passing and playmaking skills transformed the team into a dominant force in German football, while Haaland’s physicality and goal-scoring ability made him a nightmare for defenders. Their chemistry on the field was unique; Messi’s vision complemented Haaland’s strength, and Haaland’s ability to hold up the ball allowed Messi to thrive in the middle. Together, they formed a partnership that not only highlighted their individual talents but also showcased how their styles could combine to benefit the team.

## Conclusion

In their time at Borussia Dortmund, Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland left an indelible mark on the club. Messi’s masterful passing and playmaking skills redefined the role of a midfielder, while Haaland’s physicality and target-man qualities made him a formidable force. Despite their different approaches to the game, both players contributed significantly to Dortmund’s success and became household names in football. Their performances at Borussia Dortmund not only highlighted their individual brilliance but also demonstrated how their unique strengths could work together to achieve collective success. As they continue to conquer new challenges in football, the memories of their time at Dortmund will always be celebrated as moments of pure brilliance.

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