Check out the best photos from the latest round of matches throughout the footballing world

Jermain Defoe got off to a perfect start for Toronto FC in the MLS and AC Milan fans showed their displeasure with events at the club. All this and more after yet another dramatic weekend of action as Goal offers you the most illuminating images from across the globe. Enjoy! …

Did people really believe Lionel Messi’s magical powers had suddenly deserted him? He may have taken a little while to refind his best form since his return from injury, but four goals in a week have seen him guide Barcelona into the Champions League quarter-finals and take his place in the record books yet again.

Goal’s Miguel Churruca said: “

The Argentinian forward put in a stunning performance last Wednesday during the Champions League clash against Manchester City, when Barcelona confirmed their qualification to the quarter-finals. Messi made it 1-0 in the second half and calmed Camp Nou after a turbulent week.

“As well as his European appearance, Messi was brilliant on Sunday in the 7-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga. He scored a history-making hat-trick to become Barca’s all-time top goalscorer and now has 370 goals in the Blaugrana jersey.

The Shortlist

Steven Gerrard – Liverpool Goal’s Alec Fenn: “Signalled Liverpool’s intent as genuine contenders for the Premier League title.”
Dimitar Berbatov – Monaco  @FootballPaul: “Brilliant goal from Berbatov into the top corner.” Goal’s Robin Bairner: “Can be Falcao’s replacement after two assists and a goal in the 3-2 win over Lyon.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – PSG  @FRfootballMax: “37 goals for PSG in one season #Ibra.” Goal’s Hocine Harzoune: “Scored twice as PSG secured their 21st league win of the season against Saint-Etienne.”
Richard Henyekane – Free State Stars @cputoia: “Henyekane is man on fire. His first hat-trick for the club.” Goal’s Ignat Manjoo: “Scored a hat-trick to lift FS Stars out of the relegation zone for the first time this season.”

Did people really believe Lionel Messi’s magical powers had suddenly deserted him? He may have taken a little while to refind his best form since his return from injury, but four goals in a week have seen him guide Barcelona into the Champions League quarter-finals and take his place in the record books yet again.

Goal’s Miguel Churruca said: “

The Argentinian forward put in a stunning performance last Wednesday during the Champions League clash against Manchester City, when Barcelona confirmed their qualification to the quarter-finals. Messi made it 1-0 in the second half and calmed Camp Nou after a turbulent week.

“As well as his European appearance, Messi was brilliant on Sunday in the 7-0 win over Osasuna in La Liga. He scored a history-making hat-trick to become Barca’s all-time top goalscorer and now has 370 goals in the Blaugrana jersey.

The Shortlist

Steven Gerrard – Liverpool Goal’s Alec Fenn: “Signalled Liverpool’s intent as genuine contenders for the Premier League title.”
Dimitar Berbatov – Monaco  @FootballPaul: “Brilliant goal from Berbatov into the top corner.” Goal’s Robin Bairner: “Can be Falcao’s replacement after two assists and a goal in the 3-2 win over Lyon.”
Zlatan Ibrahimovic – PSG  @FRfootballMax: “37 goals for PSG in one season #Ibra.” Goal’s Hocine Harzoune: “Scored twice as PSG secured their 21st league win of the season against Saint-Etienne.”
Richard Henyekane – Free State Stars @cputoia: “Henyekane is man on fire. His first hat-trick for the club.” Goal’s Ignat Manjoo: “Scored a hat-trick to lift FS Stars out of the relegation zone for the first time this season.”